Yesterday, April 26, marked the anniversary of Dr. Lorna Breen’s death by suicide. The day before, I learned that a former student—an extraordinary nurse—also died by suicide.

In the midst of chaos and constant external noise, these two moments pulled me back to my purpose and reminded me of something someone once said to me years ago: some things matter, most things don’t. What I know—without hesitation—is this: what we do for others matters. Deeply.

My research on resilience, along with my work with Holocaust survivors, has taught me that genuine human connection and social–emotional support are not “soft skills”—they are protective factors. Relationships save lives.

We may not always recognize the warning signs in others, but we can choose to prioritize human connection. We can take the time to show friends and colleagues that we value them as people—not just for how they perform or produce.

In one episode of #ThePitt, Dr. Jack Abbot says to Dr. Robby:

“You’ve got to find somebody to help you dance through the darkness.”

As an ambassador for the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation, I believe we have an ethical responsibility to look for those who may be dancing in the darkness—which, at times, could be any of us. Personally, I’m committing to reaching out to at least one friend/colleague every day.

Sometimes the most powerful thing we can do is simply reach out.

If you’re a nurse or healthcare professional feeling isolated, overwhelmed, or trapped—please know this: you have options, and you are not alone. There are people and organizations who want to listen and help.

If you are contemplating suicide as the only answer to the problems you are currently facing, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or text the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741.

If you want to learn more about how you can help prevent suicide in nurses, physicians, and other healthcare professionals, check out our resources.