SUICIDE AMONG THE YOUTHS IS A SILENT PANDEMIC.

By Kumbirai Tadiwanashe Hamandishe

“For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his
own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?” Matthew
16 v 26

Greetings to the living church of God. I’m Kumbirai T. Hamandishe and

I’m here to talk to you about the sanctity of life.

Job 34 v 14-15, “If He should set His heart on it, If He should gather to
Himself His Spirit and His breath, all flesh would perish together, and
man would return to dust.” Since the verse makes it clear that God is
the author and finisher of life, humans do not have absolute autonomy
over their own lives, but are rather stewards of the life given to them
by God. Created in the Image of God, the value of human life is
priceless, for it derives from God, who made human beings in his own
image.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), in 2016, 815 000

deaths occurred due to suicide, globally, and over 75% of them were
among the youths aged 10 – 24 years. According to statistics, there has
been a 36% increase in the number of suicide-related incidents
between 2009 to 2019 amongst the youth.
To address this issue, it is important that we understand the
contributing causes to suicidal behaviors. A study from the UK revealed
that poverty, lack of educational and employment opportunities, stress
and substance abuse increased chances of suicide behavior in youth. A
similar study in the USA also revealed that most students who
experienced bullying were two times more likely to consider suicide
than those who have not faced such a situation.

According to the World Health Organization, statistics show that 4 out

of 5 youths who attempted to commit suicide displayed at least one
warning sign. Some of the common warning signals are; unusual
expression of anger, inexplicable mood swings, unusual reckless
behavior, talking about or threatening suicide and withdrawing from
people or activities that normally interest them.

And now, the most important part of all this is “taking action.” If you
have noticed the above signs, it is time to take action. Here are some
tips;
1. Remain calm
2. Do not play the hero
3. Be prepared to talk about suicide
4. Try to listen but do not promise confidentiality
5. Contact youth prevention internet links

Fellow brethren, if you had been contemplating suicide, may this

message bring healing into your life. Christ says in John 14 v 27,” Peace
is what I leave with you; it is my own peace that I give you. I do not give
it as the world does. So don’t be worried or afraid.” And if this is not
enough, remember that the LORD is close to the brokenhearted and
saves the crushed in spirit.

A caring church community can see suicidal thoughts not as a lack of

faith, but as a cry for help. A survivor of a suicidal crisis has said, “The
presence of a compassionate friend is worth ten year of psychiatric
care.” When we help, we are extending the healing ministry of Jesus.
Finally, a word of encouragement from “The Ministry of Healing” by E.
G. White, “Do not give way to unbelief or to desperate thoughts of
suicide, but in every trial and difficulty look to God in faith and trust in
His power to help.” Every human life is priceless…remember this.

Thank you😊