Church Provides Resources to Prevent Teen Suicide in Utah

For those seeking help, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can be reached at 1-800-273-TALK. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints also provides suicide prevention resources at suicide.lds.org.

Suicide is a growing problem, not only in Utah, but across the United States and the larger world.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has joined Utah Governor Gary R. Herbert and Lt. Governor Spencer J. Cox, as well as the many committed citizens and professionals in Utah who are working to address suicide and improve community health.

Governor Herbert signed several bills into law Tuesday, April 24, 2018; many of the legislative initiatives grew out of recommendations from the governor’s Teen Suicide Prevention Task Force that was organized in January of this year.

Church leaders accepted the governor’s invitation to participate on the task force. Elder Ronald A. Rasband of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, who was at the January launch event, was present Tuesday and gave, on behalf of the Church, a $150,000 check to the governor’s suicide prevention fund.

Community leaders at the event extended hope and support to those feeling vulnerable, emphasizing the need for everyone to do their part to help. Elder Rasband said after the event, “For those who feel there is no hope, please know that you are loved and valued. We see you and we hear you. We need you and we love you. Talk to someone now. We are here to listen and to help.”

Elder Rasband also expressed his hope that the Church’s donation would provide needed resources to assist in preventing suicide. “We want to raise awareness regarding the governor’s suicide prevention fund, and we hope this will prompt others who feel a desire to support these efforts.”