Today, suicide is a relevant theme in contemporary society. In fact, according to the World Health Organization, around 720 thousand people take their lives each year. This is a little less than 2 thousand per day. Over half of the suicides (56%) occur prior to the age of 50. It particularly affects those between the ages of 15 and 29. For the latter group, suicide is the third leading cause of death; for youth and young adults, it is the second leading cause. 73% of those who take their own lives live in low- and middle-income countries. However, richer nations are not exempt from this risk: in the United States, for example, the current suicide rate is a third higher than it was in 2000.

“In November’s prayer, the Pope emphasizes that we are all ‘vulnerable.’ It encompasses every person, including religious and consecrated persons. Our human hearts, just like the Heart of Jesus, are not immune to being wounded and suffering. No one is exempt from the darkness of desperation. This is why the Christian community must become a welcoming place, a place of healing, where those who suffer feel at home.

Let us pray that those who are struggling with suicidal thoughts might find the support, care and love they need in their community, and be open to the beauty of life.