Yes, indeed. This week is National Suicide Prevention Week. Today is World Suicide Prevention Day. Lots of activities for groups like TWLOHA, Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255 and others. I've been following the chatter on Twitter. This lead to one group's YouTube group. Then I started reading other YouTube documentaries for friends and relatives that committed suicide.
Like any groupies, there are those who are pro and con Those who try to elevate why not to commit suicide and those who try to encourage those struggling to do it. A rally cry from cutters who were able to stop themselves from committing suicide and a low moan from those who were more than happy to give detailed instructions on how to succeed. Those who know Jesus as Lord and Savior aren't always helpful. Some are and some miss the mark. See if you've read or heard this from Christians and others in these types of comments:
"He went to hell. God doesn't forgive suicide."
"She didn't seek out God. If she did, she wouldn't have done this."
"Why does everything have to be so hard? Why me?"
"I don't get it. Everyone gets bullied at some point. You either survive or you don't."
"Sometimes I feel so alone. Nobody really cares about me."
"Suicide is the one unforgiveable sin." (I was told this)
"No one will notice if I'm gone."
"God loves you. He'll help you through it. All you have to do is ask."
"Here's my number. Text me anytime. I can really help you. Really, I can."
Those are just some of the message I read in response to a posted suicide note. Some responses were so vulgar. And some were incredibly mean. "So," you might be asking, "What's the point?"
The point is this: Our young people are communicating their darkest fears and feelings in these comment sections. Over and over I wished there was a phone group where teenagers (and others) can call in and TALK about what they're feeling. As a devoted Christian, I know Jesus is the answer for the world. I know He alone can heal all those wounds. And I know He doesn't give up on anyone - EVER!
I know Christians who have committed suicide. For many reasons. I believe suicide is some people's answer to unbearable mental illness. When I struggled the most with depression or cutting, it was my first go to.
If you or someone you love and care about are struggling with suicide, don't minimize it. The thoughts are real, the feelings are real and the desire to die is very real. Reach out to someone, call the suicide lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 and get some help. You don't have to be alone.
In my own recovery, I start with my therapist then my psychiatrist. If it's real bad I take myself to the hospital. I know what to do. Instinctively.
If any Christians have a question about what the bible says about suicide, here's a viewpoint I support wholeheartedly:
What the Bible Says About Suicide
