I spoke with a teacher and school counselor who confirmed what the experts have been telling us. Our kids are suffering mentally and emotionally as a result of the pandemic. Some of it is because of abuse at home, some of it because of feelings of isolation. Whatever the reason, it's a growing concern and the end result is an increase in teen suicide.
I personally know of several people who attempted suicide during their teenage years and others who threatened it. There's nothing more devastating than to lose a child but to lose one who felt there was no other path than suicide just seems particularly cruel. For those who love and care for the child, the feeling of helplessness, the inability to sway the child to believe that everything will be okay, or to even communicate openly with him/her is such an overwhelming burden, that we don't always react to the child in a beneficial way. It's frustrating when they won't talk about what's bothering them and when they refuse help. From my own experience, it's nearly impossible to find (good) professional help for them. So what can we do? I don't know. I don't have any answers, but I am putting together some resources.
If you interact with children in any way, please take the time to read this material from The Centers for Disease Control.
The CDC lists these warning signs:
Feeling like a burden
Being isolated
Increased anxiety
Feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
Increased substance use
Looking for a way to access lethal means
Increased anger or rage
Extreme mood swings
Expressing hopelessness
Sleeping too little or too much
Talking or posting about wanting to die
Making plans for suicide
National Hopeline Network: 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784 2433)
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255)
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline’s website suicidepreventionlifeline.org.
I don't know enough to talk about this much more than what I've shared, but I do know they need our prayers. I'll share additional resources tomorrow.
The heart knows its own bitterness,
And a stranger does not share its joy.
Proverbs 14:10
*********
Please join me this week in praying for those who are contemplating suicide. Let's pray that our Father in Heaven lighten their burdens and allow them to see that there is hope in Him. Pray that they seek help. Pray that they will feel the presence of the Holy Spirit and be comforted.
I'll post daily reminders on:
twitter @7DegreesOfMe
Facebook group 7th Hour Prayer Power
#7thHourPrayerPower #BibleVerses #bible #teen #suicide #pandemic #isolation #depression
No comments:
Post a Comment