Goal of this Life Night
The goal of this Life night is to begin conversation regarding suicide and depression, educate students on what to do if they or a friend is depressed or suicidal, and clear up misconceptions in regard to church teaching on suicide.
About this Life Night
Suicide and depression are two issues that are often kept in the dark and not spoken about, but ones that are vitally important to start bringing to light. This night addresses the importance of discussing these topics in hopes of breaking down the stigma that prevents people from getting the help that they need and deserve. materials and themes from this night are largely taken from the “To Write Love on her arms” and “fears vs. dreams” movement (www.twloha.com).
This Life night may stir up some issues in your group, and you need to be prepared to deal with them. You should have at least one or two counselors present for the night; if they are unable to be present, it is a good idea that you speak to them before the night to prepare yourself. You may have a handful of teens wanting to pursue immediate support. You will want to have a referral sheet listing a number of counselors that you would recommend, and all their contact information. and you will want to have a handout prepared with hotlines, webpage addresses, etc. where teens can turn for more information. as a youth minister, don’t let the fear of what might surface in the lives of the teens stop you from doing this night. You are not doing this alone either and there is support nearby – just reach out for it.