Annastacia White

Why This Year Means So Much

One Foot Forward and being an advocate for mental health is something I have always been incredibly proud of, but this year holds a much deeper meaning for me. Last year, I had planned and was prepared to end my life on the 2nd of November. I had everything planned out and hadn’t told a single person. I genuinely believed the world would be a better place without me. After weeks of carrying those thoughts alone, I finally found the courage to open up to my therapist about what I was planning, and she stepped in, helped me rationalise my thoughts, and supported me through one of the darkest times of my life. I know not everyone is lucky enough to have access to that kind of support, and we lose far too many beautiful souls because of it. If everyone had the opportunity to receive the right support, it could change their life in the same way it changed mine. Since then, it has been 332 days, and my entire mindset has shifted. I appreciate life in a way I never thought I could, and I think about everything I would have missed out on. If I can help someone feel even a little less alone, or create that same change for someone else, I will always take the opportunity to do so. This year, I am walking for those who can’t, and for the Anna last year who couldn’t see a future, or any hope, for herself. You are not alone. Keep going, you’ve got this. 🧡