The Silent Struggle: Why Suicide Spikes During the Holidays And how we can become watchmen for those silently hurting.

Today, we address a difficult yet necessary subject: suicide, particularly during the holiday season. While holidays are often portrayed as a time of joy, many people quietly struggle with loneliness, financial instability, and emotional pressure. When these challenges pile up, suicide can become a tragic consideration for those who feel overwhelmed by life’s burdens.

Every Life Has Purpose

We believe that every life is precious. God placed each of us here with purpose and intention. Because of that truth, we must make the effort to check in on people, especially those battling depression, so they can feel seen, heard, and valued. Sometimes, a simple conversation can be the difference between someone giving up or deciding to hold on.

The Alarming Reality

According to the CDC, suicide remains one of the leading causes of death in the United States. These statistics cross every boundary of age, race, ethnicity, and gender. More than 12 million people have seriously considered suicide. Over 3 million developed a plan, and more than 1 million attempted to take their life.

Men in particular face a heightened risk. Research shows that men are four times more likely than women to die by suicide. Although men represent roughly half of the population, they account for approximately 80 percent of suicide deaths. Our elders also face tremendous emotional and psychological strain. Individuals aged 85 and older experience some of the highest suicide rates in the country. These numbers are not just statistics—they represent real lives, real families, and real heartbreak.

A Personal Story

This topic is personal for me. I once knew a young man named Brother Vaughn. He was in his early twenties—kind, humble, always smiling, always uplifting those around him. He had recently become a father. Though he seemed joyful on the outside, he was silently fighting pressures that became too heavy to bear. He took his own life. His passing affected me deeply. I often wish he had reached out, that we had the kind of relationship where he felt safe enough to share his struggle. I wish I could have told him how valuable he was and that help was available. Many people who appear the happiest on the outside are often fighting the deepest battles internally.

The Weight of the Holidays

The holiday season can intensify feelings of loneliness and hopelessness. Financial stress, family tension, social comparisons, and constant reminders of what one lacks can lead people into emotional darkness. Social media often magnifies these insecurities, presenting a false image of perfection that makes struggling individuals feel inadequate or left behind.

To the father who feels like he serves no purpose because he is unemployed or not where he wants to be in life—your life still matters. Your story is not over, and you are not defined by your current circumstances. Each new day presents another opportunity to rise, rebuild, and renew.

Escaping Pain the Wrong Way

When people feel hopeless, they may turn to alcohol, drugs, promiscuous behavior, isolation, or any form of self-harm to numb their emotional pain. These temporary escapes do not heal the root of the issue, and they often deepen the suffering. There is no shame in reaching out for help. Professionals, counselors, and crisis workers exist for one purpose—to help you through dark moments. Healing takes time, patience, and support.

The Power of Survivors

People who have battled depression or faced suicidal thoughts and survived are not weak—they are warriors. Their testimony can save someone else’s life. They remind us that pain is temporary, and hope is renewable. Their stories prove that survival itself is a form of strength.

If You Are Struggling

If you are reading this and battling depression or suicidal thoughts, please repeat these words to yourself: I have value. I am important. My life has purpose. Healing does not require you to move mountains; sometimes it begins with a single small step—going outside for fresh air, cooking yourself a meal, volunteering, exercising, or simply talking to someone who cares. Life does not have to be perfect to be worth living.

Be a Watchman for Others

Let us be more attentive to those around us. Pay attention to our elders who may feel forgotten. Check on our children who may be dealing with bullying or peer pressure. Communicate with people rather than assuming they are okay. When someone asks for help, do not ignore them. Sometimes all a person needs is one compassionate voice reminding them that their life matters.

Our prayer is that this newsletter brings awareness to the silent suffering many face daily. Let us become better watchmen for our brothers, sisters, parents, children, and elders. If God has blessed you with peace, strength, or light, let it flow outward so others can feel it. Lift somebody up. Help someone see that life is worth living.

You matter. You are needed. Stay here.

Need Help? You Are Not Alone.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis or having thoughts of suicide, call or text:

988 — Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (available 24/7, nationwide)

You can talk to someone anytime. Your life is valuable. There's hope, and there is help.