When I heard the news that Stephen ‘tWitch’ Boss died, suddenly the loud room became quiet.

I never knew tWitch, but as a person who loves dance, everybody knows who he is. So I was shocked to hear of his suicide.

It really made me think about how people can post all the happy pictures on Instagram or any social media, have all the money, have a career… and still never truly find happiness. 

You never know what is going on in someone else’s life. 

You never know who is on the verge of giving up.

Seasonal depression is real. Depression is real. Anxiety is real. Mental illness is a real disease. 

Please, stick close to the friends, family members and other loved ones who are battling this sick disease. Remind them how much you love them. Remind them how much they mean to you. 

Whether it’s in the school hallways, at work, in the grocery store or at your daily stop for coffee, smile at people. Wave at them. Let other human beings realize that they are seen and that there are kind people in the world. 

The winter season can be especially difficult for some, so continue to check up on one another. Don’t give up. There is hope for the future. 

It does get better.

***If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.