Michael Cline appeared calm while traveling through Tenerife, but severe anxiety, depression, and frightening thoughts were unfolding beneath the surface. His lived-experience story reminds us that smiles and beautiful surroundings do not prove someone is okay - and that honest conversation and support matter.

Alli Skrbek writes about the profound grief of losing her 22-year-old son, Alex, to suicide. She describes the intervention she believes he needed, the trauma surrounding his death, and why grieving parents do not simply let go—they move forward while carrying their child's memory and love.

Jillian Eidem introduces Vital Voyage's Teen Suicide Prevention Series with an urgent look at teen mental health, suicide risk, social media pressure, academic stress, substance use, warning signs, and the small acts of connection that can keep young people from feeling alone.