The reported death of actor and comic Robin Williams by suicide saddened me. To all who watched him from afar, we were entertained into believing he appreciated the same joy he unselfishly bestowed on others. But that’s the battle with depression: we don’t feel others will either understand or accept us despite the beast doing war within, so we hide behind a smile or an “I’m fine” when asked.

It saddens me to hear and read of the judgment cast on Mr. Williams and others who chose suicide as a means to end their pain. Suicide is rarely about a desire to die, but rather, a deep desire to make the pain end.

I am sad that he lost his hope and felt there was no other way to escape. I have gone through periods of despair when I wondered when things would turn around. But I also strongly believe that as long as God is still on His throne, there is hope! It’s not over until God says it’s over: “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10). I want that full life, don’t you?

The tragedy of suicide and depression

I have heard it said “suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem.” That bothers me because in the span of eternity, yes, depression is a temporary problem, but for those in the throes of depression, it feels like a never-ending tragedy. The reality is, however, that with suicide, one person’s pain ends forever, but then the pain of surviving friends and family continues.

It’s so important that we remain in God’s word, and continually be transforming and renewing our minds with the word of God. While the facts may indicate that you are suffering with depression, God’s truth says that you are worthy, you are valued, you have been redeemed, God is for you, and by His stripes you are healed.

6 things to consider if you’re battling depression and having suicidal thoughts

If you or someone you love is battling the beast of depression, and are having suicidal thoughts, let me urge you to consider a few things:

  1. Talk to your doctor as soon as possible. Your medical professional’s passion is to help you achieve complete health—physically and mentally. Your doctor can help determine what treatment might be most beneficial.
  1. Talk to a trained professional—while so many mental health disorders can make one feel embarrassed and ashamed, including depression, the shame tends to come from feeling we must hide and not reveal our true selves.  Secrets only hold power over us until they are told. 1 John 1:7 indicates that when we walk in the light, not hiding our pain or our true selves, just as Jesus is in the light, then we have fellowship with others and a chance for comfort and healing. Talk with a counselor, psychologist, or church staff about your struggles—doing so can provide guidance and help you not feel so alone.
  1. Search the scriptures for verses and God’s promises that apply to your current situation. Write them down and commit them to memory. The Bible tells us that the joy of the Lord is our strength (Nehemiah 8:10). It doesn’t tell us that we have to depend on our own strength. Rather it encourages us to rely on the Lord for our strength.
  1. Pray. No one understands how you are made or what you are going through like the very one who created you. He tells us over and over in His word to give him our burdens. He wants to help.
  1. Consider attending a support group or getting an accountability partner. In the midst of depression, it is difficult to view things objectively. Having a trusted individual or group to hold us accountable and help us see things from another perspective is extremely helpful.
  1. If you feel you have no other option, call a suicide hotline: 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433). Their trained professionals want to help.

 

 

A clinical neuropsychologist shares about the sadness behind suicide and 6 things to consider if you or a loved one are struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts. #mentalhealth

 

When you are the one suffering through depression, it may not feel like it, but the truth is, there is always hope.

Because of Him, #HopePrevails!

 

Resources for Depression and Suicidal Thoughts

Because I don’t want you to feel alone, like I did, here are some additional resources to help:

Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression

Hope Prevails Bible Study

How To Battle Depression and Suicidal Thoughts by Ray Comfort

Free Offer – Letter to My Depressed Self

10 Verses of Hope for When You Are Down or Depressed

Suicide: There’s Another Way

What to Say When a Loved One is Depressed

What Not to Say When a Loved One is Depressed

Renewed Hope: Happy Birthday “Hope Prevails”

Dear Patient, Now I Understand

Depressed? You’re Not Alone

How to Help a Depressed Loved One

FREE EBOOK! How to Help a Depressed Loved One

 

For most, suicide isn't a desire to die, but a desire to be rid of the pain and sadness. From her own experience and those of the patients she serves, a clinical neuropsychologist shares 6 things to consider if you or a loved one are battling depression and having suicidal thoughts. #mentalhealth

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