Americans attempt suicide 1.1 million times a year (CDC, 2012). Every 12.3 min another person dies by suicide (CDC, 2015). Sadly, 90% of those individuals had a diagnosable disorder at the time of death (Lethbridge-Çejku, Rose, & Vickerie, 2006).
Muslims are not immune. Our friends, family, mentors, and leaders struggle silently with suicidal thoughts every day. They are in need of love and support. The stigma around mental health and suicide has prevented much-needed research on the prevalence of suicide within the Muslim community.
The Family and Youth Institute Suicide Prevention Community Action Guide is designed to:
1. Increase community awareness and education
2. Help identify ways to integrate prevention efforts into your community
3. Highlight relevant resources for those in need
As a steward of your community, you are the first responder. You should know that what you do or say is critical. Many community organizers do not know how to sensitively support someone struggling with suicidal thoughts, a suicide attempt survivor, or the family or community affected by death from suicide.
While you may not be trained as a mental health professional, this guide is meant to equip you with the knowledge and tools to better prevent, intervene, and address suicide in your community and help save lives.
Prevention is better than cure. As Allah reminds us,
“Whoever saves one life, it is written as if he has saved all humanity.” [5:32]
Click here or on the image to the left to access this comprehensive and downloadable guide.