Willingness to Listen

Adversities and suffering can cause an individual to lose his mental balance.  The wise man said:  "Mere oppression may make a wise one act crazy." (Ecclesiastes  7:7) So a person who talks about suicide should be taken  seriously. The problems he is having, whether emotional, physical, mental, or spiritual, may require prompt attention. Of course, professional treatments and therapies vary, and a personal decision must be made regarding forms of therapy. -Galatians 6:5. 

Whatever the reason for suicidal feelings, having a discerning, sympathetic, and patient person to confide in may well make a difference. Family members and friends who are willing to listen maybe able to help. In addition to fellow feeling and kindness, up-building thoughts  from God's Word can be very helpful to those who have lost hope.

Next time: Spiritual Help for the Distressed

From the Watchtower magazine,  2000