Resources
Seeking Help is a Sign of Strength: Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Resources
If you’re considering reaching out to a crisis hotline, know that even if they can’t directly address your specific needs, they can guide you to the right resources. Seeking help is courageous and no issue is too small or trivial. If it’s significant enough to affect your peace of mind, it’s significant enough to ask for support.
Mental health and suicide hotlines
These services are dedicated to assisting individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts or dealing with other mental health challenges.
Suicide and Crisis Hotline:
988 Available 24/7, the National Suicide Prevention Hotline offers support for anyone with suicidal thoughts or in crisis, with specialized assistance for Spanish speakers and the deaf or hard of hearing community. Visit their website for additional resources.
Crisis Text Line:
Text ‘HELLO’ to 741741 This text-based service provides confidential help for a variety of issues, including suicidal thoughts, abuse, and mental health struggles. It’s ideal for those who may feel more comfortable texting rather than speaking over the phone.
Crisis hotlines for children & teenagers
These services cater to young individuals seeking a supportive ear.
YouthLine:
Text ‘teen2teen’ to 839863 or call 1-877-968-8491 YouthLine offers a confidential space for young people aged 11 to 21 to discuss a range of issues, from family and relationships to mental health and suicide.
Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline:
Call or text 1-800-422-4453 For matters related to child abuse, Childhelp provides access to professional counselors for crisis intervention and information on obtaining further assistance, with support available in 170 languages.
National Deaf Domestic Violence Hotline:
1-855-812-1001
Resources for those needing faith based advice. (hotlines, email and text)
Hotlines for the
lgbtqia+ community
The Trevor Project:
Call 1-866-488-7386 or text ‘START’ to 678678 The Trevor Project offers crisis intervention and suicide prevention services for LGBTQIA+ youth, with the option to chat via their website or text.
Trans Lifeline:
1-877-565-8860 Run by trans people, Trans Lifeline supports transgender and questioning individuals, providing a safe space for those in crisis or seeking guidance.
Recommended Reading on Suicide from a Faith-Based Perspective
- “And She Was a Christian: Why Do Believers Commit Suicide?” by Preus, from Concordia Publishing House, explores the theological questions around Christians and suicide.
- “A Biblical Response to Suicide” by Kristian Kincaid, offers a concise, scriptural perspective on the issue.
- “The Days That Were Formed for Me” by LCMS Life Ministry, provides insights on suffering, the theology of the cross, and compassionate end-of-life care.
