Suicide is against God’ will and it robs us of our potential in Christ and participation in his glorious mission.

Is suicide an unforgivable sin? No

What do I do if someone I know is struggling with suicidal thoughts?

1 )Take it seriously. It is never a joke. It is so much better to be safe than sorry.

2) Talk about it. It is a myth that asking a person about suicide will encourage the person to attempt suicide. The opposite is true. Asking someone directly about their suicidal feelings will often lower their anxiety level and act as a deterrent.

3) Talk about it carefully. You may not be ministering to a person who is struggling with these thoughts and ideations, but the family who has lost someone to suicide. Don’t use terms like “committed suicide” or “killed themselves.” Refer to it as death by suicide or simply the that they died. I know this may seem trivial, but words have power. We want to use our words to bring hope and help and not push people in pain away when they need community the most.

4) Talk about it directly. When you notice warning signs of suicide, it is important to ask directly about suicide. Don’t ask “Are you planning on harming/hurting yourself?”--that may be too vague, and the person may not be sure of what we mean. Ask: “Are you thinking about killing yourself?” or “Are you thinking about suicide?” If Yes: “Have you thought about how you would kill yourself?”, “Have you decided when you would do it?” Have you done anything to get the things you need to kill yourself?”If Yes to any: Call 911, Tell the dispatcher that the person is at risk for suicide. If available, ask for a mental health crisis professional; stay with the person.

5) Love them the way you would want to be loved.

What do I do if I lost someone I love to suicide?

1) Remember that God knows what it is like to lose a child. He has been through the pain. He knows the pain of death and the beauty of the resurrection.

2) Remember that God is close.

3) Let go of any guilt or shame that you carry. It was not your fault. What do I do if I lost someone I love to suicide?

What do I do if I am struggling with self harm or suicidal thoughts?

1) Call new hotline number effective July 16th of this year…

988

2) Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem.

3) No emotion lasts forever. They come in waves.

4) Realize you are not thinking clearly. It is not possible to think logically when you are deeply depressed, overwhelmed or exasperated. It is a lie to think that those around you would be better off without you.

5) Recognize that Satan is trying to use this moment to rob you and your family. God has placed you in your family. You are one of God’s gift to them. Do not let Satan win.

6) Get in community. You were never meant to do life alone. We are better together. You need the safety net of God’s community. Joy is doubled in community and pain is cut in half.

7) You cannot fight this fight in your own strength. You need the power of Jesus and the work of the Holy Spirit in your life.