Justin's Break the Silence is an organization founded in the memorial and memory of Justin Olien, a wonderful son, who took his life in May of 2016.
*Please be aware that this story may cause an emotional trigger.
*Please be aware that this story may cause an emotional trigger.
Justin's story
JUSTIN ALFRED OLIEN
June 18, 1998 - May 18, 2016
Justin was one of those kids who seemed to have it all. He was smart, involved
in music, and he was an Eagle Scout. Justin had a lot of friends and was the starting
center on the varsity football team. Justin was almost always smiling, and he
always seemed to be full of joy and happiness.
Justin died by suicide on Wednesday, May 18, 2016.
Everyone who knew him was in shock. Justin's suicide was out of the blue.
No own knew it was coming. Justin did not publicly show any 'typical' symptoms associated with depression and suicide. It wasn't until later that his family and friends found out that he has been silently battling depression for at least two years.
Unfortunately, he hid it well.
Justin's mom, Lynne, honored Justin by creating this nonprofit
alongside the Dakota Medical Fund. Together, we are working to try and do important work related to mental health and spreading the words:
STOP. LISTEN. TALK.
Take the time to stop and listen to the friends, family, and kids in your life. Talk to someone who can help them. It may not be easy, and it may be uncomfortable, but every person is worth it. Each person matters, and their life is worth living.
June 18, 1998 - May 18, 2016
Justin was one of those kids who seemed to have it all. He was smart, involved
in music, and he was an Eagle Scout. Justin had a lot of friends and was the starting
center on the varsity football team. Justin was almost always smiling, and he
always seemed to be full of joy and happiness.
Justin died by suicide on Wednesday, May 18, 2016.
Everyone who knew him was in shock. Justin's suicide was out of the blue.
No own knew it was coming. Justin did not publicly show any 'typical' symptoms associated with depression and suicide. It wasn't until later that his family and friends found out that he has been silently battling depression for at least two years.
Unfortunately, he hid it well.
Justin's mom, Lynne, honored Justin by creating this nonprofit
alongside the Dakota Medical Fund. Together, we are working to try and do important work related to mental health and spreading the words:
STOP. LISTEN. TALK.
Take the time to stop and listen to the friends, family, and kids in your life. Talk to someone who can help them. It may not be easy, and it may be uncomfortable, but every person is worth it. Each person matters, and their life is worth living.