By Ronnie Wendt
Suicide. It’s a word we don’t want to say, don’t want to talk about, don’t want to think about. It’s a word that represents hopelessness, despair and, too often, tragedy. It’s a word we want to keep in the shadows, but it’s one we need to bring out into the light.
Consider the facts:
- Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States.
- There are 129 suicides every day.
- In 2017, 47,173 Americans took their own lives.
- Sixteen out of every 100,000 Americans will take their own life.
- And, perhaps the most alarming statistic of all? Suicide rates have increased by 30 percent over the last 17 years, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
In a world where people increasingly see suicide as an option to their troubles, it is our goal at Just Between Us to shine a spotlight on suicide awareness. The causes leading to suicide are many, but they typically stem from depression, untreated mental illness, addictions, and troubles in life that lead to feelings of hopelessness and the idea that there is no other way out.
Professional help and medications can offer a powerful source of healing and stabilize a person contemplating suicide. Jesus Christ also plays a key role by providing a hopeless person with hope. By establishing a personal relationship with Him, we have a source of love and forgiveness, peace and joy, promise and support, and healing. Through Him who makes all things possible, we can find healing for our troubles and move closer toward our God-given purpose. Jeremiah 29:11 says,“‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’”
Just Between Us desires to come alongside people and families who are struggling with thoughts of suicide. We want to provide hope-filled resources both for the one contemplating suicide and those left behind in its painful wake. If you’re thinking about suicide, or are worried about a friend or loved one who is, seek compassionate support immediately by calling the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at (800)273-8255. It is available 24/7 across the United States.