FLAGLER COUNTY, Fla. — Mental health is often considered a silent battle, but that doesn’t have to be the case.

There’s proper help available — advocates like Sue Urban in Flagler County know how heavy the season can weigh for some. “It is okay to not be okay, and I can tell you right now that I’m not okay, explained Urban.”

In 2018, her son Nicholas committed suicide. There’s not a day that goes by where she doesn’t think of his smile. “He just lit up the room.”

Time doesn’t take away all of the pain, but Urban believes there is room for healing.

It’s the reason she created Nick’s House — a Facebook page dedicated to her son and a safe space for those in her community going through similar situations.

“Be kind and remember the following,” Urban read off of one of her posts. “Especially if you live in Flagler County/Palm Coast.”

Her message to others is that she’s simply there for you if you need help. “For many of us, this is a time of intense pain, depression, anxiety, regret, fear, and a huge list of other emotions.”

According to the CDC, suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States. It impacts all races, ages, and gender identities.

Flagler County had 20 suicide deaths in 2020, moving the county’s average up compared to recent years.

“To this day, I still don’t understand it, and I don’t know why,” Sue said. And she may never understand, but she’s grateful to be in a position now to help others.

Flagler County Sheriff’s Office also has resources for those struggling with mental health at flaglerlifeline.org. You can also reach out to the national suicide hotline at 1-800-273-8255.