Church members

Is there any suicide prevention training available through the Church?

While no formal suicide prevention training is offered through the Church, the scriptures and modern-day prophets teach many truths that will help individuals, families, and leaders who are striving to help those struggling with suicide. These truths should be carefully studied and discussed with the spirit of inspiration. President Boyd K. Packer said: “There is no question—personal or social or political or occupational—that need go unanswered. [In the scriptures] is contained the fulness of the everlasting gospel. Therein we find principles of truth that will resolve every confusion and every problem and every dilemma that will face the human family or any individual in it” (“Teach the Scriptures” [address to Church Educational System religious educators, Oct. 14, 1977], 3–4).

Individuals, families, and leaders are also encouraged to use trusted community resources and to support community initiatives that work to prevent suicide. For additional ideas on how to prevent suicide, bishops and ward council members can refer to this website and to “Ministering Resources” (LDS.org).

A few training resources you may want to consider are listed below. These resources are not created, maintained, or controlled by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. While these materials are provided as additional resources, the Church does not endorse any content that is not in keeping with its doctrines and teachings.