Remembering the life of Jay Johnson

I am writing to you today with a heavy heart to share my story about mental illness and the loss of my dear cousin, Jay Johnson. Jay was a young man full of life, but in his later years, he developed fibromyalgia, which made his life unbearable at times.

I cannot express enough how challenging dealing with depression can be, especially when you feel like you have nowhere to turn. For Jay, asking for help wasn't easy, but it's essential to remember that there are people who are willing to listen if you just ask them.

Mental illness is a topic that is often not discussed enough, and it is something that affects many individuals, including our loved ones. In our society, there is often a stigma attached to mental illness, which makes it even harder for people to seek the help they need. But it is essential to remember that there is no shame in asking for help.

Jay's death has been a reminder to me of the importance of mental health and reaching out to those around us. We should all strive to be better listeners, more compassionate, and more understanding of those who are struggling. We never know what someone is going through, and it's essential to be there for them, even if it's just to listen.

I hope that by sharing this story, I can raise awareness about mental illness and the importance of seeking help when you need it. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental illness, please know that there is help available. You can reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or a professional for support.

Thank you for taking the time to read my letter, and I hope that we can all work together to break the stigma around mental illness and provide support for those who need it.

Sincerely,

Mathew Smith