God, I Don't Want to Be Here Anymore: Rethinking How The Church Responds to Suicidal Ideation

God, I Don’t Want to Be Here Anymore is a free virtual workshop examining suicidal ideation within Christian communities and the ways faith, stigma, shame, and misunderstanding can shape how people respond to those who are struggling. This workshop will explore what suicidal ideation is, common misconceptions surrounding it, the emotional and spiritual experiences that may accompany it, and why responses rooted only in correction, fear, or spiritualization can sometimes leave people feeling even more isolated.

Participants will also learn practical ways churches, faith leaders, and Christian communities can respond with greater compassion, wisdom, and support. The conversation will focus on creating safer spaces for honesty, reducing shame, recognizing the importance of appropriate support and referral, and developing responses that honor both a person’s faith and the seriousness of their emotional distress.