Activist Brittany Packnett, who recently won the Shine Your Light Award at the BET Awards, partnered with Mic to create a video op-ed about her struggle with depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts. 

Diagnosed with clinical depression and anxiety in college, Packnett said she had overwhelming bouts of sadness that eventually climaxed on a night with her crying for hours, questioning whether she could get through the next day or if she even wanted to.

“The only thing I knew to do was to Google the National Suicide Prevention Hotline, and to call the number,” Packnett said in the video.

When sharing the piece online, Packnett shared a series of personal tweets that encouraged those tackling the same struggles to call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline and get the help they need. 

“I have battled depression my entire adult life. I have had suicidal thoughts multiple times,” Packnett tweeted. “When I give you all that suicide prevention lifeline phone number (@800273talk), I’m not just recounting random numbers: I’ve called it. It saved my life.”

“This beautiful life I lead wouldn’t have been possible had I not chosen myself and worked hard to be well,” Packnett tweeted. “Every day is still a battle. But I am here to fight it.”

Packnett and Mic’s video received a rush of well-wishes and support for her message and the way in which Packnett utilizes her platform to make a difference. 

Activistsbrittany packnettSuicidesuicide awarenesssuicide prevention