September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Seems simple(ish) and something we could all get behind. Let’s bring awareness, remove stigmas, and point toward hope.
But in the Church, it’s often not as straightforward as I think. This month has been no different.
In the last few weeks, I’ve:
Read opinions of pastors who believe our focus on mental health has led to more issues, not less
Witnessed the suffering of others be quickly dismissed and referred to as “demonic”
Been personally rebuked for believing in pharmaceuticals
There are a lot of opinions out there. And today, I don’t feel any burden to add mine to the pot.
So, I’ll just stick with the facts.
Fact 1 Since the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline was launched in 2022, suicides have gone down. The numbers are still horrifyingly high, but talking about suicide and giving people practical tools and resources helps. It doesn’t hurt.
Fact 2. I’ve sat with followers of Jesus who struggled with thoughts of suicide. When people in the Church responded with love, compassion, empathy, and further permission to speak—they wanted to die less. When they responded with guilt, shame, condemnation, and pressure to no longer feel that way—they wanted to die more.
Fact 3. The Lord has used medicine to help heal my mind. 7 years ago, I didn’t think I could go on. I wanted to throw in the towel. I loved Jesus and wanted to be wrapped in his arms. With no more weeping and no more pain. Somehow, in some miraculous way, God used a Christian therapist and medicine to get me over a hump that a lifetime of church had never gotten me over. The Lord gets the glory. Not me, my doctor, or my medicine. His sovereignly provided for me in every way.
I have so much grace for people in this conversation, as I hope people have grace for me. We’re all growing and learning. And all I’d ask is that you get curious before throwing shade.
Wars are raging.
Divisions are escalating.
People are hurting.
But my hope in Christ remains.
John 1:5 - “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
Lord, bring your light to those facing the darkest of nights right now. God be near.
