Walking Together: Faith, Hope, and Suicide Prevention

Need help? Know someone who does?

Contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline if you are experiencing mental health-related distress or are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support.

• Call or text 988
   
• Chat at 988lifeline.org  
   

Connect with a trained crisis counselor. 988 is confidential, free, and available 24/7, 365 days a year.

Visit the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline website at 988lifeline.org for more information.

September is Suicide Prevention Month, with a focused emphasis during Suicide Prevention Week (September 8–13). It’s a time to remember, to raise awareness, and to support individuals carrying heavy burdens—letting them know they are not alone.

As Christian women, our faith calls us to compassion. Proverbs reminds us that "a friend loveth at all times" (Proverbs 17:17). In a world shadowed by despair, this season is an opportunity to shine Christ’s love through prayer, presence, and practical support.

Trusted Government Resources: Life-Saving Help Just a Step Away

If you're feeling overwhelmed or concerned about someone else, these official, trusted resources are available 24/7:

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
  Call, text, or chat 988 to connect with trained counselors immediately—free, confidential, and available anytime.
  988 LifelineCDC

• SAMHSA National Helpline
  For U.S. mental health or substance use support: Call 1-800-662-HELP.
  Verywell Mind

• CDC Suicide Prevention Resources
  Offers prevention strategies, stats, toolkits, and guidance for communities.
  CDC

• SAMHSA Suicide Prevention Toolkit
  Download educational materials and resources to support awareness efforts.
  SAMHSA

• NIMH Digital Suicide Prevention Shareables
  Use shareable graphics, videos, and social posts to raise awareness online.
  National Institute of Mental Health

A Faith-Filled Response: Hope in His Presence

1. Pray Boldly
   Bring those facing despair gently before the Lord, trusting He hears even silent cries.

2. Speak Truth
   Over every lie of worthlessness or shame, declare God’s truth: “I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” (Psalm 139:14)

3. Show Up
   Listen, send a caring message, or offer to sit quietly with someone—presence matters.

4. Share Resources
   Keep 988 and other hotlines easily accessible. A shared number may save a life.

5. Educate with Grace
   Help others recognize warning signs and know how to respond with compassion and urgency.

Weekly Focus: Suicide Prevention Week (Sept 8–13)

This week is a sacred “day of action.” In alignment with efforts like 988 Day (Sept 8) and World Suicide Prevention Day (Sept 10), it's a time to pause, reflect, educate, and stir hope in our faith communities and online spaces.
988 LifelineWikipedia+1

Suicide Prevention Resource for Action

Suicide is preventable. Everyone has a role to play in saving lives and creating healthy, strong individuals, families, and communities. Suicide prevention requires a comprehensive public health approach. CDC developed the Suicide Prevention Resource for Action (Prevention Resource), which provides information on the best available evidence for suicide prevention. States and communities can utilize the Prevention Resource to inform decisions about suicide prevention activities. Strategies range from those designed to support people at increased risk to a focus on the whole population, regardless of risk.

Your Truth Declaration of Hope

“I believe in the power of prayer, presence, and compassion. Even in the darkest moments, God’s love—and help—is within reach.”

Let this guide your words, actions, and heart throughout this critical month.

In Closing

Your willingness to walk this tender path alongside others is powerful. Suicide prevention isn’t simply about awareness—it’s about letting the love of Christ shine brighter than the darkness. By combining prayer, trusted resources, and community care, together we can save lives and offer hope where it's needed most.