The Making of my story on how i went from talking to someone almost everyday to not at all

My Digital Story is about the lose of a friend who grew and became a brother. I lost him to suicide. My story is told in a First-Person Point of View. 

The toll suicide and mental health issues take on individuals, families, and communities is profound, and it has lead many to consider it a form of generational trauma. In recent years, statistics indicate a troubling rise in suicide rates across different age groups. For instance, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that suicide is one of the leading causes of death among young people aged 10 to 24. This increase reflects not only individual struggles but also a broader cultural shift. Young people today are faced with intense academic pressures, social media scrutiny, and a rapidly changing job market, all of which can increase mental health issues. The impact of these external factors can lead to feelings of hopelessness and isolation, contributing to the decision to take one's own life. 

The emotional effects of suicide extend beyond the individual to their families and communities. When someone takes their own life, it leaves a profound sense of grief and confusion among loved ones. Families may struggle to understand the reasons behind the act, often grappling with feelings of guilt and blame. This cycle of pain can span generations, as children of those who have died by suicide may carry feelings of abandonment and unresolved trauma. They may also be at a higher risk for mental health issues themselves, perpetuating a cycle of emotional distress within families. suicide undoubtedly affects generations in multiple ways. It is not merely a personal tragedy but a communal one that results in widespread emotional repercussions. 

When brainstorming ideas for how i wanted the outcome of my digital story to look like, i felt drawn to cinematic videography. The term "cinematic" refers to the qualities that make a video feel like a film. Two of the primary reasons as to why i opted for a cinematic style was because i wanted my video to be emotionally engaging as well as to be visually appealing. By using this style i was able to allow my audience to engage deeply and narrate my story in a way that resonated/s with them. This cinematic approach not only enhanced my narrative but also enriched the overall experience for me as i was creating my story.

 Music played a big role in my digital story. Sound tells a story in and of itself. Music is a powerful tool that can evoke emotions, set the tone, and provide context to the narrative being shared. When combined with my storytelling, my playlist was able to transform the listening experience, making my story more engaging and relatable. The main reason as to why i used the songs i used was to create an emotional connection with my audience. -[OPENING] SLIDESHOW OF PHOTOS WITH UNITED BY GRIEF BY KENDRICK LAMAR PLAYS WHICH LASTS FOR ABOUT 10 SECONDS (0:10-0:24). In an article i read it stated " early on in “United In Grief,” Kendrick reveals he’s been “going through something” and we learn he’s speaking with a therapist. In this opening song, his lyrics introduce themes of family and generational trauma, acceptance from a damaged and scornful culture, and healing." This made United by Grief a suited song for my intro as it set the tone that i was aiming for.