On the recordDecember 20, 2018
As we approach the holidays, I want to take a moment to talk about a difficult subject: suicide. Suicide is epidemic in our Nation. According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, suicide is currently the tenth leading cause of death in the United States, ending 48,000 lives in 2017. For those who are suffering, you need to know you are not alone and there are many who care about you. There is hope for healing. Every person was created for a purpose, though it may be difficult at times for a person to find that purpose. One of the most basic, and often most effective, ways to help prevent suicide is to ensure that our loved ones, friends, colleagues, and anyone else in our lives feels connected and has a sense of belonging. There is great virtue in reaching out to the marginalized and neglected, especially young people who may be lonely or bullied. For those who are despondent and having suicidal thoughts, services like the National Suicide Prevention Hotline is vital. The hotline is a free support service available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week: 1-800- 273-8255, 1-800-273-TALK. As we enter this season of hope, let those who are hopeless encounter the encouragement that everyone needs. ____________________
