Preventing Suicide: Embracing Hope & Faith
Sep 08, 2022
Dearest Warrior of Light,
In the midst of National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, our hearts turn to the precious gift of life and the hope of preventing the shadows of despair. It is a time to embrace the divine purpose and light within us all.
Suicide has, in one way or another, touched the lives of many. It transcends age, gender, and circumstance, leaving its mark on our families, friends, and communities. As the world continues to evolve and challenge us, the allure of escape from pain and suffering can grow stronger for those bearing this burden.
Preventing suicide requires the wisdom to recognize the signs. If you suspect that someone you love may be carrying the weight of suicidal thoughts, be vigilant for these signals:
- Feelings of hopelessness, emptiness, or a lack of purpose.
- A sense of being trapped or devoid of reasons to live.
- Overwhelming sadness, acute anxiety, anger, or agitation.
- Overwhelming guilt or shame.
- Expressing a desire to die or believing the world would be better off without them.
- Feeling like a burden to others.
- Unbearable emotional or physical pain.
- Researching self-harm methods or acquiring means to carry it out.
- Increased use of drugs or alcohol.
- Social isolation and withdrawal from loved ones and activities.
- Reckless behavior.
- Thoughts of revenge.
- Significant changes in sleep patterns.
- Drastic mood swings.
- Expressing thoughts of death and suicide through writing or on social media.
It's essential to recognize that not everyone will display all these signs, and there may be unlisted indicators. The key to aiding someone in crisis is to connect with them, notice shifts in their behavior, and find the courage to initiate a caring conversation.
Research underscores the significance of strong connections within families and communities as a bulwark against suicide. Suicidal feelings often arise when life's burdens or serious health issues lead to hopelessness. Yet, individuals enfolded in the love and support of a close-knit community are more likely to find solace and healing through these connections.
An additional prevention strategy involves shielding oneself and others from ever entering that dark realm of suicidal contemplation. Consider these protective measures:
- Teach and learn problem-solving and coping skills to nurture resilience.
- Cultivate bonds with family and community.
- Embrace cultural and religious beliefs that offer purpose, encourage connection, promote seeking help when needed, and discourage self-destructive behaviors.
- Restrict access to lethal weapons and other dangerous means.
- Ensure access to mental healthcare is readily available.
- Prioritize your own mental well-being and that of your loved ones.
- Most importantly, establish a profound connection with our Heavenly Father and the Savior.
May I offer you a scripture that brings solace and guidance in times of darkness:
Psalm 34:18 (KJV) - "The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit."
If you or someone you hold dear grapples with thoughts of suicide, reach out for help without fear or shame. This world was never intended for us to navigate alone. You are cherished deeply by those who surround you and by our Heavenly Father.
Your life is of immeasurable worth, and your unique presence is a gift to this world. Suicide prevention starts with prioritizing mental health. Extend your care to yourself and encourage others to do the same.
The greatest gift we can bestow upon ourselves and others is the tender act of self-care and promoting mental health.
With unwavering love,
Wendi Christensen, LCSW
