Suicide Prevention Materials for Clergy and Faith-Based Communities

Recognizing the need to engage clergy in suicide prevention and help faith-based communities effectively address and respond to suicide, the Suicide Prevention Resource Center (SPRC) at HHD created several resources designed specifically for faith leaders:

• The “Resource Scan of Faith-Based Materials Addressing Suicide Prevention” (PDF)  provides a listing of more than 100 resources, including brochures, prayers, Web sites, and other training-related materials on topics including stigma, and raising awareness of suicide and depression.  Most of these resources are available at little or no cost.  Recommendations for leading suicide prevention efforts are also presented. 

• The “Meeting Summary and Recommendations: Clergy Workgroup on Suicide Prevention and Aftercare” (PDF) summarizes findings from a workgroup meeting designed to identify critical elements for curriculum to train clergy in suicide prevention and responding to survivors of suicide.  The document calls for better training and curricula specific for clergy on how to appropriately address issues of suicide. 

• Customized Information Page for Clergy
  These materials offer quick tips and resources for immediate action to prevent and respond to suicide and highlight topics ranging from the role of the clergy in suicide prevention and how to recognize and respond to warning signs for suicide.

• “After a Suicide: Recommendations for Religious Services and Other Public Memorial Observances” (PDF) aids community and faith leaders who plan memorial observances and provide support for individuals after the loss of a loved one to suicide by offering a series of resources and recommendations.

Visit the SPRC’s online library to access more resources on suicide prevention and mental health promotion.

July 25, 2007