While it involves prayer, counsel, visits and assistance, it is centered on providing more awareness, prevention education and healing support to those who are contemplating su***de and to those who have lost a friend or loved one to the act of su***de itself, within our communities. This requires an understanding of the impact of su***de and how people react to it and how God has called His peopl
e to respond. Above all, it requires us to have within ourselves, an unfeigned hope of healing that we can take to those in need. The "TUFF Su***de Prevention Ministry” program was created because of the significant need of awareness in our nation and the need in our local community, as well as in the body of Christ, to care for those dealing with su***de. Su***de is a serious public health problem that can have lasting harmful effects on individuals, families, and communities. While its causes are complex and determined by multiple factors, the goal of su***de prevention is simple: Reduce factors that increase risk (i.e. risk factors) and increase factors that promote resilience (i.e. protective factors). Overall, prevention addresses all levels of influence: individual, relationship, community, and societal. Effective prevention strategies are needed to promote awareness of su***de and encourage a commitment to social change. Su***de claimed 39,518 lives in 2011 in the United States alone, with someone dying by su***de every 13.3 minutes. A su***de attempt is made every minute of every day, resulting in nearly one million attempts made annually. Su***de accounted for 12 deaths for every 100,000 people nationwide, making it the country’s 10th leading cause of death. Unlike many other leading causes of death, su***de continues to claim more lives each year. The "Tuff Arms Of Support" group was created for family members and friends who have lost their loved ones to su***de. We understand the special needs of those who have suffered this difficult kind of loss. Our goal is to help survivors cope with the death of their loved one so they can move forward in their lives in a positive and productive way. They have a safe place to share experiences and learn from others, ask questions, and disclose feelings that they are often unable to express elsewhere. Most important, participants find a place where there is no shame, no stigma and no isolation involved in being a survivor. Our support group is a non-denominational based ministry for men and woman and includes all su***de survivors from all walks of life. We will cover many specific topics and will provide some special speakers at our group meetings. Our "Tuff Arms Of Support" Program Description:
◾Typically composed of 6 to 10 participants
◾Will meet once a week for 90 minutes
◾The program allows participants to develop safe, secure bonds with each other, thereby improving the healing process
◾Provide Education And Information
◾Provide motivation and inspiration
◾Provide encouragement for Biblical Believers and Non-Believers
◾Questions and answer opportunities
◾Provide a What's on your mind discussion (Tell Your Story)
◾Facilitated by a survivor who has lost a loved one to su***de, and volunteers his or her time to help others
We welcome each of you as part of our extended family, with a non-judgmental ear, mind and heart. We are here for you and your family. Our meetings are held with a casual and relaxed atmosphere. We encourage you to come join us, just as you are and to represent who you are. This is a place for you to be comfortable and to just be yourself!
