In this series of articles, we offer resources from a number of religions in dealing with suicide along with resources for prevention and meeting challenges. In this issue, we look to what supports Christianity has for prevention and meeting challenges.
Why are faith-informed conversations needed?
Disparities in mental health outcomes for people from minority ethnic backgrounds, and the high proportion of people from such backgrounds professing a faith, means that referrals and signposting through faith communities is one way of addressing health inequalities and enabling people to gain timely access to the support they need.
Trigger points
Many people turn to their faith, or access a faith community, at times of transition, difficulty or change – like bereavement, retirement, changes in relationships, living somewhere new, or having a baby. These moments can also be trigger points for poor mental health and suicidal ideation, so a well-placed intervention, or referral to the right support, can make a big difference.
Personalised care
Good care is personalised and built upon what matters to people. You might argue that few things are more personal than where we place our faith. Any truly personalised approach to suicide prevention must take faith into account.
Benefits
People want their faith to be included in their care, and they benefit when it is. Religious or spiritual beliefs and practices are important to many people, and can be a major influence on their attitudes and behaviours. Over half of people who use mental health services find their beliefs helpful in managing their mental health issues, but often find it difficult to speak about them with health professionals.
Studies have shown that culture and faith-informed practice can improve communication and lead to better outcomes.
There are people that do seek professional help, but they still want to understand: what is happening to them? Is it based on karma? They’ve got so many questions that they want answering based from their faith… -Leader of a faith-based mental health charity
Assets
Faith communities have assets for prevention, including:
- Prominent buildings in accessible locations
- An ethos of care and compassion, including to the most marginalised
- Motivated volunteers (meaning investment goes a long way)
- Social capital and expertise through their networks
- Trust and community knowledge
Assets are the physical and non-physical resources or characteristics which help faith groups serve their communities. Such as: buildings and spaces, volunteer power, an ethos of care and service, and trust.
Christianity
There are many different ways in which Christians worship God. Worship is any act that shows devotion towards or love for God, ranging from praying at home to attending a church service.
Christian churches are often open all day for quiet reflection, and services are regularly held with all being made welcome. In this way, churches can help those who are lonely and provide support.
Rites of passage are held in local churches so that the community can be involved. Churches also often run youth groups, giving local children a place to participate in activities.
Churches often provide help and advice for those in need, and many Christians volunteer for local charities.
Many churches and Christians run food banks from their church halls. Some Christians volunteer as street pastors, going out onto the streets at night to care for those in need and those who are at risk of harm.
The following content is intended to offer information on when, where and how Christians might access community-based support. It should not be treated as guidance on how to engage with the Christian community.
How is life, suffering, and death understood within the Christian faith?
Life…
- is considered sacred and a gift from God.
- should be stewarded and protected.
- is viewed with an eternal perspective.
Suffering…
- is an inevitable part of being human in a corrupted world.
- is not caused by God, but can be used to shape our character.
- is an opportunity to identify with and draw near to Jesus, who experienced suffering, was rejected by people and put to death.
- will one day be eradicated in a new heaven and earth.
Death…
- is not the end for Christians, who believe life continues after death with God, in heaven.
- can be faced with hope because of the salvation offered by Jesus.
Support
When do Christians gather / connect?
Usually once a week for worship and fellowship. Most commonly on Sunday morning, but other times are also common.
Many church communities will have other regular meeting times, often on weekday evenings, such as prayer meetings, Bible studies, “small groups”, or youth groups. These will often be key “touchpoints” for pastoral care and support.
Catholic churches observe mass on weekdays, as well as on a Sunday.
- “Church” can refer both to a building and place of worship and a community of people.
Where do Christians gather / connect?
Sometimes in a dedicated church building, but other meeting places may also be used, including rented halls, community centres, or homes.
Some dedicated church buildings remain open to the public for prayer throughout the week, and may be accessed at any time by people seeking refuge, peace or support.
Many churches operate additional community meeting spaces such as cafes, community centres, parent-and-toddler groups and drop-ins.
If a Christian wanted to access faith-based wellbeing support, how and where might they do this?
Most church communities have organised structures of pastoral care and support. This is usually overseen by an ordained priest, pastor or minister, but there will commonly be other leaders in either paid or voluntary pastoral roles. These people may be the first port of call for someone experiencing life challenges or mental distress, and may be involved in offering advice, prayer, practical support or signposting.
Some churches allow specific time and space during weekly worship for people to receive prayer or support for any challenges they may be facing.
Some churches offer dedicated mental health support and / or programmes for people experiencing challenges with their mental health.
Most church communities will be registered charities, and many will have named safeguarding leads. Some may have trained “champions” for mental health, or even offer professional counselling services.
Christian chaplains are present in a range of workplaces and institutional settings. Some Christians may find it helpful to speak to a chaplain first as someone able to offer faith-based support our counsel outside of their immediate church context.
Are there dedicated organisations offering faith-informed support?
Lifeline was started by the Churches of Christ. Excellent explanatory (Easyread) material from Lifeline about Myths and Misconceptions on Suicide is found here:
https://toolkit.lifeline.org.au/topics/suicide/suicide-stigmas-myths-and-misconceptions
The Bereavement Journey programme is offered widely by Christians and church communities for people who have been bereaved whether recently or long ago, including supporting those who have been bereaved by suicide. The final, optional session on Faith Questions in Bereavement deals specifically with Christian faith issues related to suicide (see below).
https://www.thebereavementjourney.org/
Sanctuary Mental Health offer a free course for churches wanting on promoting good mental health.
https://sanctuarymentalhealth.org/uk/
Premier Lifeline is the largest phone support and prayer line for Christians in the UK. All staff are mental health trained.
https://www.premierlifeline.org.uk/
Additional content
Case studies and testimonials
The Mind and Soul Foundation website has articles on the subject of suicide from a Christian perspective, covering how views have changed throughout history, what the Bible says and personal testimony.
https://www.mindandsoulfoundation.org/Groups/424321/Suicide.aspx
Particular protective and risk factors associated with suicide and the Christian faith
The Church and stigma
Whilst faith can be a huge source of support and comfort for many people struggling with their mental health, some Christians may experience more negative associations, especially if they have been told that people who die by suicide will go to hell. It is worth noting that this is not mainstream teaching, and not biblically based, but it can leave people feeling very guilty if they have attempted suicide but not died.
Historically, the Church has viewed suicide as unforgivable, and it was believed that those who died by suicide would not enter heaven. Consequently, they were denied a churchyard burial, and the term ‘committing suicide’ became common. Many people bereaved by suicide, and especially from the Roman Catholic or Anglo Catholic tradition, feel especially anxious about potential responses from Christians. The Roman Catholic Church has since lifted its ban on suicide funerals and seeks to accompany people at risk with pastoral care.
World Suicide Prevention Day – Tuesday 10th September 2024
Changing the Narrative
