MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS
Voices
By Alan J Winters
Voices whisper in the quiet night,
Echoes rising, shadows take flight.
They call my name, they twist my thought,
A battle within that cannot be bought.
Some speak in riddles, some in fear,
Others grow louder, too close, too near.
The world outside may never see,
The storm inside that follows me.
Yet awareness breaks the heavy chain,
It reminds me that healing can ease the pain.
Therapy, medicine, a listening ear,
Paths of treatment bring hope near.
Voices may linger, but I am not alone,
Support and compassion have steadily grown.
In every struggle, strength can be found,
With care and awareness, peace resounds.
Reflection:
Why "Voices" Matters
By Alan J Winters
This poem shines a light on the lived experience of hearing voices a symptom that can be part of conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or severe depression. It acknowledges the fear and isolation but also emphasizes treatment options: therapy, medication, and community support. By framing it within mental health awareness, the piece encourages empathy and understanding rather than stigma.