I intended to make this a two or three part series. But I decided to keep it more to the specific point I want to make. This is open for comments from anyone who feels inclined. You can speak your mind. Personally, in this specific blog post, I'm not interested in the convoluted politics and myriad ramifications that this painful subject elicits. However... as always... you are free to speak your heart and your mind. I hope when you do, compassion will guide your words.
First, I'll lead with the first paragraph given to us by Wikipedia on the subject: Suicide is the act of intentionally causing one's own death.[9] Mental disorders (including depression, bipolar disorder, autism spectrum disorders, schizophrenia, personality disorders, anxiety disorders), nihilistic beliefs, physical disorders (such as chronic fatigue syndrome) and substance use disorders (including alcohol use disorder and the use of and withdrawal from benzodiazepines) are risk factors.[2][3][5][10] Some suicides are impulsive acts due to stress (such as from financial or academic difficulties), relationship problems (such as breakups), or harassment/bullying.[2][11][12] Those who have previously attempted suicide are at a higher risk for future attempts.[2] Effective suicide prevention efforts include limiting access to methods of suicide—such as firearms, drugs, and poisons; treating mental disorders and substance misuse; careful media reporting about suicide; and improving economic conditions.[2][13] Even though crisis hotlines are common, they have not been well studied.[14][15]
Now... I'll bet you probably know someone who has committed suicide. I do. It could even be a close loved one. You may have even considered the act yourself. I'm sure many of us have experienced difficulties, struggles, crisis and hardships that have driven us into dark, dangerous places. I have been in these dark, dangerous places more than once. I survived. Others have not.
I won't go on much longer. I just want to ask that if we know of ANYONE who may be suffering to the point of considering suicide, that we will be patient, nonjudgmental and compassionate. That we will exercise faith and inspire hope in these people stuck in the downward spiral of hopelessness. Offer them shelter, support, affection and positive options. Get them professional help. Please. Just love them.
We are all in this thing called LIFE together. We are like ships passing through the night. If you see a sinking ship, for goodness sake, throw them a lifeline. In any way you can. Show them you care. Show them that they matter.
Here are some numbers to help:
Crisis Text LineText HOME to 741741
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255
Trans Lifeline 1-877-565-8860 (for the transgender community)
TrevorLifeline 1-866-488-7386 (for LGBTQ youth)
I end this blog with a song by Casting Crowns which has moved me in a major way. It's entitled 'Does Anybody Hear Her'. I hope you will listen to the words and find the strength, the wisdom and the courage to help someone in need. If YOU are in need... I hope and pray this helps. I'm including the lyrics to this beautiful, inspired song...
"Does Anybody Hear Her"
She is running A hundred miles an hour in the wrong direction She is trying But the canyon's ever widening In the depths of her cold heart So she sets out on another misadventure just to find She's another two years older And she's three more steps behind Does anybody hear her? Can anybody see? Or does anybody even know she's going down today Under the shadow of our steeple With all the lost and lonely people Searching for the hope that's tucked away in you and me Does anybody hear her? Can anybody see? She is yearning For shelter and affection That she never found at home She is searching For a hero to ride in To ride in and save the day And in walks her Prince Charming And he knows just what to say Momentary lapse of reason And she gives herself away Does anybody hear her? Can anybody see? Or does anybody even know she's going down today Under the shadow of our steeple With all the lost and lonely people Searching for the hope that's tucked away in you and me Does anybody hear her? Can anybody see? If judgement looms under every steeple If lofty glances from lofty people Can't see past her scarlet letter And we never even met her Never even met her (Never Even Met her) Does anybody hear her? Does anybody see? Or does anybody even know she's going down today Under the shadow of our steeple With all the lost and lonely people Searching for the hope that's tucked away in you and me Does anybody hear her? Does anybody see? Does anybody even know she's going down today Under the shadow of our steeple With all the lost and lonely people Searching for the hope that's tucked away in you and me Does anybody hear her? Does anybody see? He is running A hundred miles an hour in the wrong direction...
Comments