By: Amy Isham
We’re still learning how to have conversations about mental health, but there’s one topic that’s even more sensitive, suicide.
Host Aaron Johnstone and guest Mitch McPherson explore the question, “How can we help save a life?”.
Meet Mitch McPherson: A Champion for Mental Health
Mitch McPherson, founder of SPEAK UP! Stay ChatTY, which advocates for mental health and suicide prevention. Mitch’s younger brother, Ty’s suicide led him to create safe spaces for mental health conversations. Mitch’s work led to him being named the 2017 Tasmanian Young Australian of the Year. In the episode, Mitch shares candid reflections on the personal tragedy that fuels his advocacy and the power of open dialogue to break down stigmas and save lives.
The Ripple Effect of Suicide
Aaron and Mitch discuss the profound impact suicide has on those left behind. The pain, confusion, and unanswered questions affect families, friends, and communities. Mitch emphasises the importance of breaking the silence around suicide by fostering conversations that address mental health head-on. This episode reminds listeners that supporting mental health isn’t just about providing professional help but building interactions and community support.
The Power of Hope and Connection
You can make a difference in the lives of those struggling with their mental health and you can do something to help. By making it “okay not to be okay” and encouraging those you worry about to seek help.
What does the Bible say about Suicide?
The Bible doesn’t explicitly condemn suicide, but suicides in the Bible are often tragic, including Judas, who betrayed Jesus so that he could be arrested and crucified. Augustine called suicide, “the murder of the self”.
The Bible refers to someone’s life as a “silver cord” connecting them to their maker. Ecclesiastes 12:6-7 says:
“Remember Him before the silver cord is snapped
and the golden bowl is crushed,
before the pitcher is shattered at the spring
and the wheel is broken at the well,
before the dust returns to the ground from which it came
and the spirit returns to God who gave it.”
To hear the whole episode and learn more about suicide prevention, click HERE
Article supplied with thanks to City Bible Forum.
Feature image: Photo by Priscilla Du Preez 🇨🇦 on Unsplash