DISCLAIMER: Possible Mental Health Triggers
My heart broke this week as I read about the alleged suicide of Emily Gold. Emily discovered fame as a leader on the Los Osos High School dance team that performed on America’s Got Talent. She was a bright, energetic girl — a cheerleader and a good student. She was 17 years old. After spending 27 years working with teenagers, I still have a heart that is drawn toward them. While I will admit that I cannot directly relate to the challenges that teens face today, I am, however, perhaps more knowledgable than most. And while I could list some of those challenges that I believe make growing up in the world today much more difficult than when I was young, I will save that conversation for another venue.
Instead, I ponder the reality that many people (not just teens) today come to the conclusion that life for them is simply not worth living anymore. Painfully, I reflect on the mental anguish that some folks wrestle with as they navigate their world which is filled with anxiety, fear and despondency. Our world is experiencing a mental health crisis.
According to Mental Health America (mhanational.org), 60 million Americans dealt with some from of mental challenge in 2022. Over 5% of Americans have seriously contemplated suicide and 13% of youth between the ages of 12-17 have considered ending their own life. Suicide is the third leading cause of death among teenagers. Almost 20% of teenagers experience some form of depression that should be clinically treated.
If you are struggling with your mental health, please, do not suffer alone. Tell someone. If you experience suicidal thoughts please dial 988 on your phone to reach the Suicide Prevention Center or text HOME to 741741. Free licensed counselors are available 24 hours a day. Please also know that you can contact us at the church office. We are readily willing to provide help and resources. We promise, no judging and only compassion.
Paul wrote, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7 NIV I want you to know that sometimes Philippians 4 is a process. Just like any part of faith-growth that we experience in our life… some things come easier than others, and some areas of faith-growth require a lifetime to apply to our life. Simply quoting these verses won’t bring peace to some people, but it IS possible to know the peace of God. Just know that our church wants you to realize that peace… and we are here to help.
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