Pamphlet Review: Suicide: How faith Communities Can Provide Hope and Promote Healing

This is an interesting pamphlet form Mental Health Ministries and distributed by National Alliance for the Mentally Ill.  We here so much about suicide, 1,000,000 people attempt suicide.  In the United States this accounts for 36,000 deaths annually.  Risk factors include previous attempt, depression, alcohol or drug abuse, family history of suicide, physical illness or chronic pain.  Most people who complete a suicide give some warning, either giving away possessions, impulsive purchase of a firearm, or obtaining other means of killing oneself.  As an individual you can acknowledge the pain of those who are in need, talk to them and listen, don't be afraid to ask if someone is contemplating suicide, ask if they are seeing a therapist or taking medication, help them get help or to a safe environment.  Do not try to argue someone out of suicide.  Let them know you care and they are not alone.  As for the faith community there is a need to talk openly about suicide, and provide information.  Mental illness is a treatable illness, no a moral or spiritual issue.  Be aware of local resources and hotlines.  In Santa Clara County the line is 1-855-278-4202