Death by suicide is the tenth leading cause of death in the US, and the second leading cause of death for people 15-34. Pleasant Grove MB Church wants everyone affected to know you are never alone.
In September, our hearts are heavy with the awareness that suicide remains a significant public health concern in the United States. Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month serves as a stark reminder that we must come together as a community to address this critical issue. As followers of Jesus Christ, it is our duty to extend love, compassion, and support to those who may be struggling with thoughts of suicide and to promote awareness about mental health.
Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month is a major public health concern
We recognize that Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month is a major public health concern in the United States, as suicide is a leading cause of death for people of all ages. The act of suicide involves injuring oneself with the intent to die. A suicide attempt, on the other hand, is harming oneself with the intention of ending one’s life without actually dying.
Every person can save lives by preventing suicide
Suicide prevention requires an integrated public health approach. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) developed the Suicide Prevention Resource for Action, which provides information on suicide prevention methods that are proven to be effective. In addition to supporting people at risk, the Prevention Resource provides guidelines for all states to consider when planning suicide prevention activities. https://www.cdc.gov/suicide/resources/prevention.html
11 Warning signs of suicide
- Talking about wanting to die
- Looking for a way to kill oneself
- Talking about feeling hopeless or having no purpose
- Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
- Talking about being a burden to others
- Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
- Acting anxious, agitated or recklessly
- Sleeping too little or too much
- Withdrawing or feeling isolated
- Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
- Displaying extreme mood swings
What to do
If someone you know exhibits warning signs of suicide:
- Do not leave the person alone
- Remove any firearms, alcohol, drugs, or sharp objects that could be used in a suicide attempt
- Call the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1 (800) 273-TALK (8255)
- Take the person to an emergency room or seek help from a medical or mental health professional
The Alarming Reality
Suicide stands as a prominent cause of death across all age groups in the US, evoking both shock and sorrow. Every year, we witness the loss of thousands of lives to suicide and witness the profound impact it has on families and communities. As Christians, we embrace the significance of cherishing every human life and extending support to those who endure pain.
Breaking the Stigma
One of the most significant obstacles that we face when addressing the critical issue of suicide is the pervasive stigma surrounding mental health problems. Sadly, all too often, individuals who find themselves grappling with the heavy weight of depression, anxiety, or other mental health challenges are left feeling isolated and disheartened, unable to reach out for the help they desperately need.
To combat this societal barrier, it is of utmost importance that we take decisive action to create a secure and nurturing environment within our church and community. We must foster a space that is free from judgment, where people feel not only safe but encouraged to openly discuss their mental health concerns.
In doing so, we can help destigmatize mental health and provide the necessary emotional support for families and those who require it. Together, let us be the compassionate and understanding voice that helps light the way towards hope and healing.
Prayer and Support
As a close-knit church family, we deeply comprehend the profound impact of prayer. In this heartfelt moment, we humbly beseech the divine for solace and strength for those who are grappling with the overwhelming burden of suicidal thoughts. Our prayers extend not only to them but also to their families who tirelessly bear the weight of this arduous journey alongside them.
Extend our Support
Moreover, in our compassionate pursuit to spread love and empathy, let us endeavor to extend our support to those in our midst who may be silently suffering. By offering a listening ear, a compassionate shoulder to lean on, and the unwavering assurance that they are never alone, we can create a nurturing environment where everyone feels valued, understood, and supported.
Power of Prayer
Together, through the power of prayer and genuine care, we can bring light and hope to those amidst the darkness, reminding them that they are intricately woven into the fabric of our church family’s love and compassion.
Promoting Awareness
Education plays a vitally important and indispensable role in suicide prevention. As we commemorate this dedicated month of raising awareness, let’s take active steps to educate ourselves and our community about the crucial warning signs of suicide, the myriad of available resources, and practical strategies to extend support.
By collaboratively working together
We can effectively dismantle the barriers that impede individuals from seeking the necessary help they require, thereby fostering a society that is characterized by heightened compassion, empathy, and understanding.
What is Yellow Ribbon suicide prevention?
The Yellow Ribbon’s Suicide Prevention Program, established and managed by the reputable Yellow Ribbon nonprofit organization, is a comprehensive and nationally recognized initiative that focuses on combating teen suicide.
With a strong emphasis on raising awareness and fostering a supportive environment, the program utilizes the symbolic yellow ribbons to ignite conversations surrounding mental health problems and suicide prevention strategies.
By actively engaging teens and providing them with the necessary resources, Yellow Ribbon’s Suicide Prevention Program aims to make a lasting impact in the lives of individuals who may be vulnerable to thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
Mental Health Resources and Help
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please remember that help is available. Reach out to a mental health professional, a pastor, or a trusted friend or family member. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) for immediate assistance and emotional support. Trained crisis counselors are available to talk 24/7/365.
When to call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline?
It is very hard to think of suicide if one thinks that one has psychiatric problems. You need to be in a very difficult place to be there but suicide will not be a solution. When someone hurts themselves or others, it has to be their main priority. We encourage you to contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline number prevention line at 988-4488.
The suicide rate is high among people of all ages.
In 2021, suicide ranked as the ninth leading cause of death for people ages 10-64. Suicide came in second for individuals ages 10-14 and among those ages 20-34. We encourage you to contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline if you are suffering from mental health issues or are worried about a loved one who may need support.
Call or text 988 | Chat at 988lifeline.org
Connect with a trained crisis counselor.
988 is confidential, free, and available 24/7/365.
Visit the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for more information at 988lifeline.org
https://www.cdc.gov/suicide/index.html
What’s the 988 number for?
As of August 15, 2019, the telephone number will be transferred directly to the 988 suicide crisis line. 988 Lifeline offers 24-hour, confidential support to individuals suffering from depression or other psychological issues. Trained crisis counselors are available to talk 24/7/365.
In conclusion
During Suicide Awareness and Prevention, a designated time for reflection, we are reminded of the profound significance of mental health, emotional support, compassion, and community support. As steadfast followers of Christ, it is our sincere endeavor to become radiant beacons of hope and healing for those in distress.
Together, let us join forces to bring about positive change, striving for a world where each life is unequivocally valued, and no one bears the burden of suffering in solitude. With unwavering devotion, we will illuminate the path with God’s unfathomable love, ever ready to extend our compassionate hands to those in dire need.