My thoughts on suicide and death of a student

As promised my next thoughts are on suicide. Most suicides in our area take place because of issues with depression. There are many things to be depressed over but as christians we should try to remember that if we stay focused on the Lord he is not going to give us anything to go through that we can't handle. Unfortunately suicides seem to go in cycles. When one person starts the cycle friends, parents and associates of that individual need to be aware of several symptons of depression. The following is a list of symptons of depression. If you find one of your children, friends, or people you know showing some of these symptons please seek help right away.

Symptons of Depression


Depressed mood
Change in sleeping patterns (too much, too little, etc.)
Change in weight or appetite
Speaking or moving unusually fast or slow
Loss of interest in usual activities
Withdrawal from family and friends
Fatigue or loss of energy
Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
Diminished ability to think or concentrate
Thoughts of death, suicide, or wishing to be dead
Anxiety, agitation, or enraged behavior
Drug and/or alcohol abuse
Neglect of physical health
Feelings of hopelessness or desperation
(www.twopaths.com)

Biblically speaking the Bible says very little specifically about suicide though there are several references that are usually interpreted to show that we should trust in the Lord to take care of us. Some of these scriptures are:

1 Cor 6-19-20
Luke 12: 6-7
Job 1:21
Heb 9:27
John 3:16

My heart goes out to the families that have to deal with this tragedy. Please try to look out for clues from your loved ones. Looking at the list myself has definitely put me on alert for one of my loved ones as he has to hear of someone he knows that recently lost his life. I know this person, too and it caused me great trauma to hear that one of my former students had ended his life. I was training in Reno, NV when I received a text message from my youngest son that Ahmer was dead. I was fighting a lost voice and this sad news made doing the training that more difficult for me. I wanted to know why and couldn't find out until I had completed my 2nd session. Once I found out that he had hung himself, I went through many emotions. I was concerned for his salvation (this young man was a muslim), his family (very nice people- including both of sisters which I know), my kids (both of them knew him and his family well), and other students. Ultimately, instead of staying in NV to site see after I completed my training, I just wanted to get back into my home area and be nearer to my children. I ask you to continue to pray with me for the family of this young man and all the children in the school. Please read the list and watch your loved ones. Seek help from a counselor, psychologists or some other professional if you feel one of your loved one seems to be showing some of the symptons from the list.