National Suicide Prevention Month: Author Marc O'Brien Raises Awareness Through Fictional Writing
Anyone can have suicidal thoughts, regardless of age, gender, or background. In actuality, untreated mental illness frequently leads to suicide.
With September being National Suicide Prevention Month —a time for raising awareness to a stigmatized, and often taboo topic, Lithuanian/American Author Marc O'Brien continues to use his great works to shift public perception, spread hope and share vital information to people affected by suicide.
O'Brien, who graduated from Barry University in 1988 and now resides in Cocoa Beach, Florida, has always felt that it is his duty to use fictional writing to distribute information while educating people on how to deal with life's adversities professionally on a global scale.
Sparked by the skills obtained during his College years as a therapeutic horseback riding participant and South Florida Hunter/Jumper Association, The Final Fence: Sophomores in the Saddle was born.
Eddie Patrick, the main character, is a make-up of O'Brien who majors in Communications Arts. Patrick attempted suicide using two canes as a result of something beyond his control and two wristbands, a symptom of being self-destructive.
Surviving his suicidal attempt, Patrick meets Danielle Lynne, an able-bodied esquestrian with the skills required to qualify for the Olympics.
When the pair meet on a college campus, their shared love of horses sparks a classroom debate. Working towards a shared goal, their friendship exemplifies highlighting the significance of talking about mental health, great friendships, respect, achieving closure and having a stable foundation.
Based on socialisation and how we perceive a disability, The Final Fence: Sophomores in the Saddle will empower you to discuss real-life issues peacefully rather than feeling inspired.
When dealing with adversity, O'Brien uses interpretive fiction serving as a fantasy world, an escape and believes assisting readers in grasping more complex ideas about life and facets of human existence helps readers to enhance their comprehension of reality.
Many of us have come to realise that adveristy is unavoidable. However, similar to Eddie Patrick, despite life's difficulties, with resilience, we are capable of surviving them, contributing to society and making a positive impact.
Resilience enables us to discover ways to turn adversity into an opportunity. Additionally, adversity is crucial for success.
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call The Samaritans on 116 123 or text The Suicide & Crisis Helpline on 988 immediately.
If you are uncomfortable talking on the phone, you can contact Jo@Samaritans.org or the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988lifeline.org.
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