September is National Suicide Prevention and Awareness month. A month where we have the opportunity to shift perception, provide resources, and proclaim that there is always hope. Suicide is never the answer. The struggle is very real. Truth is, we can all benefit to know the risks and warning signs for suicide and what to do if in a crisis.
We need to listen for the warning signs of suicide. You might hear someone express unbearable pain and say, “I can’t keep doing this anymore” or “there is no reason left to live.” Look for feelings of hopelessness, despair, feeling like they are a burden to others. People can reach this level of hopelessness through a life tragedy such as loss of a loved one or friend, physical pain, financial crisis, or a job loss. Research has been shown that the majority of people who have suicidal ideation are those who suffer from a mental illness such as MDD (Major Depressive Disorder), Bipolar Disorder, and PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder).
We need to be aware of behavioral changes and also any preparation making. Behavioral changes can be withdrawing from family and friends, high risk behaviors (driving too fast, heavy substance use, unsafe use of guns). Your hygiene may take a nose dive. You may stop showering, brushing your teeth, neglecting to take care of yourself. You may start to make preparations by giving your belongings away, putting personal affairs in order, or saying goodbye to family and friends.
In helping someone who is suicidal the most important thing we can do or say to that person is to let them know they are not alone and there is always hope. Let that person feel known and that they are valuable to the world and most importantly, Christ. We can show compassion towards that person and meet that person right where they are. When someone is suicidal, they are not thinking clearly. We must learn to catch these signs before hand and before it reaches the crisis level. It is important that we offer love and support just like Christ did for us. Their life matters and they matter to God.
King David offers praise to the Lord for meeting his needs.
“I waited patiently for the Lord; And He inclined to me, And heard my cry.
He also brought me up out of a horrible pit, Out of the miry clay, And set my feet upon a rock, And established my steps.
He has put a new song in my mouth, Praise to our God; Many will see it and fear, And will trust in the Lord. Psalm 40: 1-3 (NKJV)
Suicide is surrounded by stigma and a controversial topic. The word alone brings shame and guilt and many still do not understand this depth of despair or pain. We want to help others and we want to prevent suicide from happening. It is okay to experience numbness, hopelessness, and despair. What is not okay is to act on these feelings. Tragically, that is not always the case and some do take their own lives. It is important that we offer hope to those who are hurting, love to those who are suffering, and an openness to understand.
If you are someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org or reach out to a mental health professional.
“Suicide is a serious thing. And if you know anyone who is suicidal, you need to get them help. No one should be in pain. Everyone should love themselves.”-Gerard Way
