A 1‑Hour Faith-Based Conversation on Suicide for Youth
Who:
Teens ages 13–18 in youth groups, church gatherings, or community programs
Why:
To break the stigma around suicide by talking openly, grounding our hope in Christ, and equipping young people to recognize warning signs and take faith‑rooted action.
Workshop Objectives
Raise Awareness: Foster honest dialogue about mental health and suicide.
Biblical Hope: Anchor in Scripture—God cares deeply for those who suffer.
Identify Warning Signs: Learn the common cues of distress in yourself and peers.
Take Action: Practice practical, faith‑based steps for help and intervention.
Know Your Resources: Connect with crisis lines, church leaders, and counseling supports.
1‑Hour Agenda
Welcome & Prayer (0–5 min)
• Open with a brief prayer for God’s presence and comfort.
Icebreaker & Ground Rules (5–15 min)
• “Hope Lines”: Share one thing that brings you hope.
• Establish confidentiality and respect.
Scripture & Teaching (15–25 min)
• Key verses: Psalm 34:18; Jeremiah 29:11; Matthew 11:28–30
• Short teaching on God’s heart for the brokenhearted.
Warning Signs & Myth‑Busting (25–35 min)
• Overview of common signs (withdrawal, talk of “not wanting to exist,” mood swings).
• Debunk myths about discussing suicide.
Small‑Group Role‑Play (35–45 min)
• Practice listening skills and faith‑filled responses in real‑life scenarios.
Action Steps & Prayer Chain (45–55 min)
• Create “When I’m Worried” cards with steps: Pray → Talk to an adult → Call a crisis line.
• Form a circle to pray for one another’s well‑being.
Resources & Closing (55–60 min)
• Share crisis contacts (e.g., Canada Suicide Prevention Service, Kids Help Phone, 988 Lifeline).
• Provide church counselor/youth pastor info.
• Blessing: “You are never alone.”
Key Takeaways
Your Life Matters: You are God’s precious creation.
Courage to Speak Up: Asking for help is a sign of strength.
Community Care: We watch over one another as family in Christ.
Immediate Help
Canada Suicide Prevention Service: 1‑833‑456‑4566 (24/7)
Kids Help Phone (Canada): 1‑800‑668‑6868 or text CONNECT to 686868
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (US): Dial 988
Your Youth Pastor or Church Counselor
Equip your teens with hope, support, and life‑saving tools—book “Hope in the Darkness” today!

