Before I was born my mother had a boyfriend who was a surgeon and he died of suicide.
His parents founded a suicide prevention foundation in Germany.
His father became my Godfather.
During my PhD my Godfather passed away, only months after my father passed away.
My mother suffered both from post-partum depression, as well as her bipolar disorder.
I dealt with this my entire life.
She thought of suicide a lot and had one attempt during my time in high-school.
My grades dropped and my teachers called me stupid.
When I was 20 years old and started my studies I had a very hard time.
I dealt with a lot of pressure and my parents could not help me financially at all.
I tried my best and I did not want to be a burden for my parents.
I thought they would be better off without me.
Now I know that this could not be more far away from the truth.
I am glad I survived and that I am here to tell my story and help others.
September is #suicidepreventionmonth. Take a minute. Save a life.
