The USA Suicide Epidemic and the Church: how do we deal with the unthinkable?

In 2021, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists declared a national health emergency for child and teen mental health. 

 LifeWay researchers found suicide impacts the local church greatly but few resources are available for those struggling-  poll revealed 76% of churchgoers believe leaders should address this issue more fully and offer better help to those struggling emotionally and with mental illness. 

Sadly, many Christians know of someone who has killed themselves within their family, work, or church circles.  

Suicide is a monstrous beast that seems to devour all aspects of the survivor’s lives. But Jesus is bigger than sorrow. Jesus is greater than death. He will make a path to healing and life for the Christian bereaved. Will life ever be the same? No, but it can still hold meaning and produce fruit. 

God understands why the deceased took their life and He is also aware of what it will take to bring hope to those left behind to deal with the tragedy, pain and grief. When the bereaved eventually come out of the grieving process they will find that God went with them and before them every step of the way.  

It is important for the Christian bereaved to live in community with the Lord and His people, the church. The Apostle Paul writes: 

 “Blessed be our God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God” 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 

  We know that suicides and suicidal ideation are a reality facing the American church. we must be prepared to meet this challenge. The enemy would have us throw up our hands in defeat and turn it over to limited secular solutions but we are the ones who actually have the answer to human hopelessness. 

As we proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ we can provide resources for our communities to express deep pain, shame and guilt and despair. Trained Lay counselors and MH Coaches within a local church is a first step. 

Suicide does not have to tear relationships apart for the Christian bereaved. Families can pull together and their relationships can become stronger because they are holding on to one another within an environment of understanding and patience. Genuine community is a tremendous weapon against isolation, fear, shame and despair. 

Ultimately we must look to the Lord who is the Rock of our salvation, the Strong Tower and Fortress. He will get us home. If that loved one that took their life was in Christ, we will see them again. Nothing can separate us from the love of God once we are in Him. 

 “What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? (Romans 8:31) 

That scriptural truth means that even I, cannot be against me. Trusting the Lord patiently and running to His Word is vital as we climb toward the light after such a profound loss. God knows our every need and He is faithful to meet those needs in His time and abiding love. 

If you would like to go through the Youth Mental Health Coach certification training with your church or school staff please contact Darryl at darrylriden@gmail.com or through cpmlife.org. We would be happy to bring this training to your organization.  Let us know how we can assist. 

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All music content written and performed by Darryl Riden, Taylor Riden, Caiti Riden (c) 2024

Contact info: cpmlife.org Christ Powered Ministries