Dear Christ’s Church Family:
Suicide is a growing tragedy in America and across the globe. A few weeks ago, we posted an article from the Baptist Press on the increase of suicide, especially among seniors, Senior adults suffer greatest increase as U.S. suicides near 50,000 (by Diana Chandler).
Whether you are aware of this or not, the statistics on suicide indicate that it is very likely that you know someone who is currently struggling with suicidal thoughts. Perhaps you have experienced first-hand the painful realities of the suicide of someone close to you. Maybe you know of someone who has been deeply affected by suicide.
I want to provide you with some resources on the topic of suicide. The resources include some helpful information on suicide prevention, how to help someone struggling with suicidal thoughts, and helping people grieve the suicide of a loved one.
Here is a short article written by Kathryn Butler for the Gospel Coalition with 5-steps for how the Church can help in suicide prevention: How the Church Can Help in Suicide Prevention.
Following is a set of four articles written for the Biblical Counseling Coalition as part of a mini-series on this very important topic:
Nine Guidelines for Counseling Suicidal People, By Robert Jones.
Counseling Those Impacted by a Loved One’s Suicide, By Rachael Rosser.
When a Christian Dies by Suicide, by Jeffery Forrey
What Pastors and Congregations Need to Know about Suicide, by Kevin Carson.
If you are looking for information or resources on the topic of suicide, the following article has 20 clickable links to books, articles, and some video/audio resources:
20 Recommended Resources Related to Suicide Prevention and Grieving a Suicide, by Paul Tautges:
This is by no means a comprehensive collection of all the resources available on the topic of suicide. In fact, these resources may not address the questions or information that you are seeking. If you have questions about suicide or would like some other resources, please contact me: danb@ccfw.org.
Your brother in Christ –
Dan Brewer
IMPORTANT:
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, hope and help is available. Reach Out!
989 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline:
Help for anyone suffering with thoughts of suicide is available through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Connect with people who are ready to help in a crisis by texting or calling 988, or connecting online. https://988lifeline.org/
Call the Suicide Prevention Hotline:
1 800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433)
1 800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255)
Call 911.
Call the church office (253) 941-2711.
You are not alone. God has placed us in a community together – His church. We are here to help one-another!