Have you ever had a loved one commit suicide? The question is always why did they do it or did I fail my loved one in some way?

Suicide is a major, preventable public health problem. In 2004, it was the eleventh leading cause of death in the U.S., accounting for 32,439 deaths. The overall rate was 10.9 suicide deaths per 100,000 people. An estimated eight to 25 attempted suicides occur per every suicide death.(NIMH) That means that lots of families are touched each year in this country either by a member committing suicide or attempting to.

For Christians it becomes a problem not only of feeling the loss of the loved one, but dealing with the issue of the person’s eternal soul. The truth is that folks should not underestimate the Grace of God. Family members who have lost loved ones to suicide need to hear the following words. They come both from Jewish texts and Christian texts.

Behold, the arm of the Lord is not shortened, that it cannot save, or his ear dull, that it cannot hear" (Isaiah 59:1). The loved ones who are left in grief can take comfort from knowing "it is not the will of the Father that any of these should perish" (Matt. 18:14). We have the promises, "He does not deal with us after our sins, nor requite us according to our iniquities" (Psalm 103:10) and "My Father is greater than all...and no one is able to take them out of the Father's hand" (John 10:29). In the face of these great mysteries, we can assure ourselves, "Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right?" (Gen.18:25).

When you read the risk factors below you will begin to understand that we are not talking about sin. We are talking about an illness. The Judge knows that. Men and women here on this earth may not, but the all knowing Creator and our final Judge does. He will do right. In my humble opinion I find nothing in the Bible that says folks will go to hell for acts caused by an illness. My Bible tells of Jesus healing the sick not sending people away to eternal damnation.

Research shows that risk factors for suicide include:

depression and other mental disorders, or a substance-abuse disorder (often in combination with other mental disorders). More than 90 percent of people who die by suicide have these risk factors.

stressful life events, in combination with other risk factors, such as depression. However, suicide and suicidal behavior are not normal responses to stress; many people have these risk factors, but are not suicidal.

prior suicide attempt

family history of mental disorder or substance abuse

family history of suicide

family violence, including physical or sexual abuse

firearms in the home, the method used in more than half of suicides

incarceration

exposure to the suicidal behavior of others, such as family members, peers, or media figures.

Research also shows that the risk for suicide is associated with changes in brain chemicals called neurotransmitters, including serotonin. Decreased levels of serotonin have been found in people with depression, impulsive disorders, and a history of suicide attempts, and in the brains of suicide victims.

If you are in a crisis and need help right away:

Call this toll-free number, available 24 hours a day, every day: 1-800-273-TALK (8255). You will reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, a service available to anyone. You may call for yourself or for someone you care about. All calls are confidential.”

(NIMH)

You can reach me directly at [email protected]

HOMEPAGE: http:// www.projectdreamagain.com