Millions of adolescent and adult Americans suffer from depression. Emotional distress can be brought on by the loss of a loved one, peer interactions, and a number of other realities of life, and it's the concern and support of strangers that sometimes makes all the difference to those who are hurting.

Depression impacts an estimated 20 million people in their teenage years to adulthood in the United States, according to Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance statistics. Depression has reared its head in my family, and it has nearly claimed the life of my brother on multiple occasions in the past three years. It's absolutely heartbreaking to witness, so I can't imagine how awful the experience is for the sufferer.

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It's been hell watching my older brother attempt to fend off the demon that is depression. He has tried to drown the mental monster with alcohol for the better part of a decade now, and even after numerous stays in rehabilitation centers and multiple trips to the emergency room with lethal amounts of medication and alcohol in his system, the affliction always finds a way to resurface.

This week, many in the Magic Valley took to social media to commend the unknown individual(s) who taped a sign near the Perrine Bridge that read, "You R Needed, You R Loved." It was a beautiful gesture, and every single person who commented on the Facebook post shared earlier in the week was moved by it. Unfortunately, many of those who are going through a mental health crisis view the Perrine Bridge as a means to ending the suffering.

To view the image, click here. If you, or someone you know, needs help dealing with depression, please contact an Idaho mental health professional at 866-903-3787.

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