This week, pastor, writer, mental health advocate, father and husband Jarrid Wilson died by suicide at the age of 30.
Wilson was a graduate of Liberty University, and this week the school’s Senior Vice President for Spiritual Development, David Nasser, delivered a brief, but powerful tribute to him.
As Nasser noted, Wilson frequently tweeted about the need to address mental health issues, including in the days leading up to his death.
Loving Jesus doesn’t always cure suicidal thoughts.
— Jarrid Wilson (@JarridWilson) September 9, 2019
Loving Jesus doesn’t always cure depression.
Loving Jesus doesn’t always cure PTSD.
Loving Jesus doesn’t always cure anxiety.
But that doesn’t mean Jesus doesn’t offer us companionship and comfort.
He ALWAYS does that.
Tomorrow is #WorldSuicidePreventionDay, and @anthemofhope wants you to know that #YourLifeMatters!
— Jarrid Wilson (@JarridWilson) September 9, 2019
800,000 people love their life to suicide each year, and we want to do something about it.
The Movement: https://t.co/009o18QNbq
Donate: https://t.co/8URnpZighz
I can’t help but notice the vast amount of articles regarding the hardship, brokenness, and pain many encounter while being in ministry and/or being a pastor.
— Jarrid Wilson (@JarridWilson) September 8, 2019
If this is truly the case, why does most of the church still ignore the conversation surrounding mental health?
If you or anyone you know is suffering from depression or suicidal thoughts, know there is help. Please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). There are people waiting to talk and help.
