By Steven O. Evans, Phd

Dear OutClique Friends and Readers, 

Where are you today?  I don’t mean physically, I mean emotionally.  I think it’s vitally important to do a self checkup on ourselves.  I am a firm believer in goal settings. Write them down.  Make them tangible.  They have to be measurable and specific. 

Lately, I seem to be hearing a disproportionate amount of people going through something lately.  Break ups, loss of a job, housing problems, relationship issues, churches being divided, hostile home environments, lack of transportation, a need for friendships, suicidal thoughts, and even the death of loved ones.

September is designated as National Suicide Prevention month.  

Friends, please hear me.  Whatever you are going through, there is help.  Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem.  I promise you, there is an answer.  There is hope.  You can have a brighter future.  Fight the chaos with care.¹ And it’s OK not to be OK.  

If you have thoughts of suicide or know someone that does, it’s OK to ask for help.  Immediate needs should always utilize 911 services.  Talk to your primary care physician about medications and counseling.  Don’t be afraid to trust in friends or loved ones.  There are many other resources listed in this issue that can be of service.

You only go around once in this life.  Make every day, every moment, and every second count.  You are loved and were created for a purpose. ² 

May happiness be abounding.³

Steven O. Evans, PhD4

Editor in Chief