Information about faith & culture in suicide prevention
Despite a global trend toward decriminalising suicide, recognising it as a public health issue rather than a criminal act, suicide remains a criminal offense in approximately 20 to 25 countries worldwide. Additionally, in about 20 countries that adhere to Islamic or Sharia law, suicide attempts may be punishable by jail sentences
In many countries and cultures across the world, suicide is either an illegal offence or considered as a mortal sin in some religions.
This section of our website aims to share helpful information from organisations who specialise in and provide guidance for talking around this topic.
Faith Action – Talking Faith in Suicide Prevention
Since 2009, FaithAction has been working to unlock the potential of faith groups to bring about a healthier, more just society where more people belong.
Working in collaboration with a national network of faith-based and community organisations, we bring strategic, sustainable, and research-grounded solutions to societal problems.
FaithAction is also a long-standing member of the VCSE Health and Wellbeing Alliance, working with the Department of Health and Social Care, NHS England, and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
Do you need guidance or support in relation to a particular faith? Click this link to access an excellent guide, which provides information relevant to; Christianity, Islam, Sikhi, Buddhism, Judaism, Hinduism .
Further resources:
LivingWorks run a LivingWorks Faith online course
Find trusted Sikh therapists
Bayo is a space to find collectives, organisations and services from across the UK that offer mental health and wellbeing support to the Black community
Black Minds Matter have produced resources for Black people around mental health, including where to find culturally appropriate therapy
Jami is a mental health charity for the Jewish community
Muslim Community Helpline provides confidential, non-judgemental listening and emotional support for people from Muslim communities
Sehhat aims to empower people to live a life where suicide is preventable and mental health is managed with tailored, accessible and relevant resources for the Punjabi community
Spark & Co provide tailored education, information and connection for racialised people in the UK