Suicidality

When Life Feels Too Heavy to Carry: A Hope-Filled Word for the Suicidal Heart

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; He rescues those whose spirits are crushed.”—Psalm 34:18 (NLT)

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If you're reading this right now with tears in your eyes or heaviness in your chest—if you're wondering whether anyone would notice if you disappeared—let this Truth be your lifeline: you are not alone, and this is not the end of your story.

 

Sometimes life hurts so much that it feels unlivable. The pain presses in, the options feel few, and hope can feel like a foreign word. But before you make a permanent decision in a moment of darkness, please hear this:

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There is help. There is healing. There is hope. And you are deeply loved.

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Understanding Suicidal Thoughts

Suicidal thoughts often show up not always because someone wants to die, but because they desperately want the pain to stop. These thoughts can be terrifying, confusing, or numb. And while they may feel like the only way out, they are not the truth. They are symptoms of something deeply painful, but pain is not your identity.

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Suicide is never the answer—but reaching out is.

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Here are some signs that someone may be struggling:

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• Talking about dying, disappearing, or being a burden

• Withdrawing from loved ones and normal activities

• Giving away possessions or saying goodbye

• Mood swings—high one day, deeply low the next

• Reckless behavior or increased use of alcohol/drugs

• Feeling trapped, hopeless, or worthless

• Dramatic changes in eating, sleeping, or personality

• A sudden calm after a long period of depression​

 

Sometimes, there are no signs at all. That’s why checking in, asking hard questions, and listening without judgment can save lives.

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What to Do If You’re in Crisis

If you're thinking about ending your life—or know someone who is—please don’t wait. Get help right away. There are people ready to listen and respond with compassion.

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If you're in immediate danger:

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1. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

2. Call or text 988 – the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 for anyone in the U.S. (Confidential and free.)

3. Veterans can call 988 and press 1, or text 838255.

4. Chat online at 988lifeline.org/chat

5. Spanish speakers can call 1-888-628-9454.

 

If you're struggling but not in immediate crisis:

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• Talk to someone you trust—a friend, a pastor, a counselor.

• Reach out to a mental health provider.

• Call the 988 Lifeline anytime. It’s not just for emergencies—they welcome calls just to talk.

• Take one small step. Then another. God works in those tiny, faithful steps.

 

For the Friend or Loved One Who’s Worried

If someone you love is showing signs of suicidal thinking, don’t ignore your concern. You don’t need all the right words—just your presence and willingness to ask can be life-saving.

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• Gently ask, “Are you thinking about hurting yourself?”

• Listen more than you speak. Stay calm. Stay connected.

• Encourage professional help—and offer to go with them.

• Never promise to keep suicidal thoughts a secret.

• If they’re in immediate danger, call 911 or take them to the ER.

 

And please, take care of yourself too. Supporting someone in crisis is hard. You need support as well.

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There’s Still a Story to Be Told

At Still Waters Counseling, we believe in the sacredness of life—even when it feels shattered. We believe God always has purpose for you. We offer a safe space to untangle the pain, speak the unspeakable, and take gentle steps toward healing.

 

You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need to take one step.

We offer:

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• In-person and virtual counseling

• Faith-integrated therapy for depression and suicidal thoughts

• Support for individuals and families affected by suicide

• Compassionate, confidential care—without judgment

 

If you think Still Waters might be the right place for you to get help, we would be honored to walk with you. Your life matters. Your presence matters. And there is still hope.