Suicide—such a sad word. A word closely linked to shame and guilt. A word wrapped in confusion and misunderstanding. It brings the unending questions of “why?” and “how come?” One misconception some have is that Christians never think about, attempt, or succeed at suicide. But we know differently. Wonderful, godly people have shared struggles around thoughts of suicide, and we know of Christian families who have had precious loved ones commit suicide. Since September is National Suicide Prevention Month, let’s have a conversation about it.
Loss through Suicide
Losing someone is always difficult but knowing that a person we care about took his or her own life is much harder. While we wrestle with feelings of
Asking for help does not mean you are weak; acknowledging there is a problem is a sign of strength.
confusion and inadequacy, it is hard not to believe that a close friend, a loving family member, a pastor’s wife—that someone could have done more. The hard truth is that when people have made up their minds to end their lives it is very difficult to stop them.
The risk factors are numerous and varied. Challenging life situations, illness, certain medications, and mental illness are a few of the things that can alter an individual’s perception of reality to the point that supportive family and friends are not enough to stop life-threatening actions.
Remove the Stigma: Openly Discuss Suicide and Mental Illness
There is a desperate need for us to openly discuss difficult topics like suicide and mental illness. It is possible, if we remove the stigma attached to these topics, it will remove the fear to ask for help by those who suffer. Keep in mind that if our brothers, sisters, and friends continue to suffer silently without intervention or treatment, this sometimes leads to death.
We believe in a God who is able to heal and to help. We believe in the body of Christ to partner with God to accomplish this work. Click To TweetSo, we are speaking up and speaking out about the need to ask for help. Asking for help does not mean you are weak; acknowledging there is a problem is a sign of strength. Whatever you or your friends are facing today, there are options to enable them to find some relief to the pain in the midst of life. We believe in hope: “Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a desire fulfilled is a tree of life” (Proverbs 13:12, ESV). We believe in a God who is able to heal and to help. We believe in the body of Christ to partner with God to accomplish this work.
Show Support
We should talk openly about tough topics and listen well.
Empirical evidence shows that talking openly about suicide is the first step in reducing attempts.
We should ask hard questions, show support, and offer other types of supportive resources such as counseling or other helps. We should stay connected, pray, and provide hope. Empirical evidence shows that talking openly about suicide is the first step in reducing attempts.
Numerous websites provide information and resources. For an easy-to-read overview of issues and resources, go to: Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
Get involved; make a difference. Join us in speaking up and speaking out.
The following is reprinted from Suicide Prevention Lifeline
Know the Risk Factors
Risk factors are characteristics that make it more likely that someone will consider, attempt, or die by suicide. They can’t cause or predict a suicide attempt, but they’re important to be aware of.
- Mental disorders, particularly mood disorders, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, and certain personality disorders
- Alcohol and other substance use disorder
- Hopelessness
- Impulsive and/or aggressive tendencies
- History of trauma or abuse
- Major physical illnesses
- Previous suicide attempt(s)
- Family history of suicide
- Job or financial loss
- Loss of relationship(s)
- Easy access to lethal means
- Local clusters of suicide
- Lack of social support and sense of isolation
- Stigma associated with asking for help
- Lack of healthcare, especially mental health and substance abuse treatment
Know the Warning Signs
Some warning signs may help you determine if a loved one is at risk for suicide, especially if the behavior is new, has increased, or seems related to a painful event, loss, or change. If you or someone you know exhibits any of these, seek help by calling the Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
- Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves
- Looking for a way to kill themselves, like searching online or buying a gun
- Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
- Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
- Talking about being a burden to others
- Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
- Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly
- Sleeping too little or too much
- Withdrawing or isolating themselves
- Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
- Extreme mood swings
Get involved; make a difference. Join us in speaking up and speaking out.
Bio: Cindy Miller is Stan’s wife and ministry partner. They live in Columbus, New Jersey. Cindy has a PhD in Pastoral Care and Counseling and serves as associate professor of practical theology at Urshan Graduate School of Theology.
Resources and Links
A version of this content originally appeared in Reflections. To see more content or subscribe, click here.
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