(September being World suicide prevention month. I dedicate this article to all the youths of our Nation)
The statistics concerning suicide rates in our country are alarming. Around 7 lakh people die committing suicide every year in our country. Suicide is the fourth leading cause of death in 15–19-year-olds. 77% of global suicides occur in low-and middle-income countries.
The incidence of student suicides continues to surpass
both population growth rates and overall suicide trends. Over the last decade,
while the population of 0-24-year-olds reduced from 582 million to 581 million,
the number of student suicides increased from 6,654 to 13,044. (Source: IC3
Institute)
Life in this 21st century is not an easy cakewalk
for most of us. Young minds are constantly assaulted with negative thoughts and
mixed ideologies affect their Mental Health. Utter chaos and busyness is the state
of their mind. Where can one get help and find solace in such troubled moments?
As human beings, we are made with intrinsic worth. No
doubt we are wonderfully created in the image and likeness of God (Gen 1:26). We
are not just an accident on this planet, without any purpose. We are specially
crafted by God and our lives are in His hands. We have no right to take our
lives. God is the sole owner of our lives. The clay learns submission only in
the hands of the potter. Are we like the clay submitting in His hands?
Suicide is surely a cowardly, devilish act when
we don’t dare to face life’s challenges. “Winners never quit; those who quit
never win”. we are called to soar high like an eagle. Never look down and
walk without hope. There is a ray of hope and light for you in the following lines.
Have you not known? Have you not heard?
The Lord is the everlasting God,
the Creator of the ends of the earth.
He does not faint or grow weary;
his understanding is unsearchable.
29 He gives power to the faint,
and to him who has no might he increases strength.
30 Even youths shall faint and be weary,
and young men shall fall exhausted;
31 but they who wait for
the Lord shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings like eagles;
they shall run and not be weary;
they shall walk and not faint. (Isaiah 40:28-31)
As you read these lines (whoever you may
be) allow these words to speak to you and take a grip on your life. Make a simple prayer in
the place where you are right away and place your life into the hands of God. You will be a changed person with renewed
strength to face life’s challenges.
Rest is assured from God as you read and reflect on
these comforting words of Jesus in Mat 11:28-30 "Come
to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you
rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I
am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your
souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
Respond to this invitation. Ask for immediate help if you have any suicidal thoughts. Seek the help of your friend, family member, or a trusted counselor without any delay. Talk to anyone whom you are comfortable with and get help. There is so much to live in this present life. You’re not alone in this fight.
NEVER EVER GIVE UP!
