Suicide is a sensitive topic that impacts the lives of many. We are in a unique position as religious educators to share and testify of eternal truths. It is important that our responses are accurate and balanced. It is important that we know the Church’s teachings and resources on suicide. Also, it is important that we know how to respond when young people trust us enough to confide that either they or someone they know is struggling with suicidal thoughts. 

It is important that we know what we can teach as well as what we cannot teach on this topic. Sometimes in our desires to teach the seriousness of suicide or the merciful nature of the Saviour after a suicide, we say or teach things that we do not know. Be honest about what we know as well as about what we do not know. Ultimately, the best teacher and giver of peace is the Saviour. The greatest thing that we can do is to help those impacted by suicide turn to the Saviour for comfort and personal revelation.  

It is essential that we understand what we can and cannot say about suicide. Watch the following clips from Elder Dale G. Renlund and look for things that we can say about suicide. 

Practice and Incorporate

Read the following scriptures and record your impressions of the following questions:

Isaiah 53:3–5

Alma 7:11–12

Acts 16:28

John 14:27

Moroni 9:25–26

One of the most important truths about suicide is that the vast majority of people do not want to die. They want the pain to stop. How can we better teach and testify that the Savior can help carry whatever pains and sorrows our youth and young adults may be facing?

How can we better show Christlike compassion towards all of those we teach?