You Do Not Walk Alone - Deacon Tim Harrer

Living a healthy and happy life today isn't always easy or sometimes possible.  The vast majority of us develop adjustment and coping skills from on going life experiences. Yet for to many individuals, life stressors, strained relationships,  financial issues, or recent or impending crises become too much to bear, too much to be able to go on living.

Unfortunately so many of those in our family, our friends, our school or work groups has given up and become a part of 45,000 suicides in our country each year, the second leading cause of death in the 15- 34 age group.

The recent celebrity deaths of Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain has brought renewed attention and concern over how to prevent these tragic events. Common causes include diagnosed mental health issues,  drug and alcohol abuse, and for the young, engaging in copy cat behavior when someone else in family or friend circles has taken their own life.

Suicide is a crises. A person created and loved by God has given up on life. It is so sad and tragic. Each of us asks what can I do? What should I do?

There are no easy answers, but there are some things you can do.

When a person is known to have a crises now or earlier, be a listening non-judgemental friend. When a person is withdrawing from what was the usual living behaviors, enter into their life as a disciple partner, trying to walk with that person in this moment of their life journey. What might that look like? Picking them up and taking them for coffee or dinner. Listening to their struggles. Encouraging them to do the things that have brought them happiness or better yet, do it with them, if possible. Pray for them and if they are open, pray with them.

The tendency of most of us is to be concerned but not willing to get involved. But, when we remember that Jesus entered into the lives of each He met, healing, encouraging, we also remember that He asks the same of us. Life is a precious gift from God. Be there for a child of God.

Finally, know your limits. You are there to be a friend,not a professional therapist. The best thing you can do for someone who is suicidal is to get them to professional help in your area.

Be aware of crises life lines such as: calling a national helpline, free and confidential - 1-800-273 TALK (8255) or text HOME to MN741741 to talk with a trained crisis counselor.