Suicide, is not the Answer my Friends!

When I was about 12 years old I attempted suicide. Yes, you read right. That same year, I was taken away from my abusive home and put into a group home, and was later moved into a foster home which I outgrew. At the time, I couldn’t believe nor understood why I had to go through this painful experience and wanted out all together. Throughout the years, I’ve lived on survival mode and learned early on to take care of myself to the best of my ability. Eventually with the help of therapy, mentors and care takers, I understood that non of it was my fault.

Before embracing Islam, suicide roamed in the back of my head, even though I knew in my heart that I would never carry on with the actual act. It would vaguely cross my mind. At a very young age I was encouraged to strive, to obtain the highest level of excellency and that my worth was priceless by my grandparents, aunts and uncles. I honestly have held on to that and continue to strive to achieve and always give the best of my being to others.

After embracing Islam, I learned early on that absolutely no one has the right to hurt us, (especially) ourselves. Gracefully those suicidal thoughts never returned, not even at my lowest point.

Comprehending that we belong to our Creator, our Maker, our Lord and only He can take us whenever He wills is crucial for us to understand, especially in difficult times. Alhamdulillah I learned to hold on and not to let go of His (swt) rope through storms, turbulence, trials, hardship, obstacles and challenges because…

“Nothing will happen to us except what Allah has decreed for us. He is our protector.’ And on Allah let the believers put their trust.” – Surah Tawba 9:51

Nevertheless, we can not underestimate mental health illnesses in our communities. We need to stop sweeping this topic under the rug as if they do not exist. Depression, sadness, anxiety, suicide is REAL. It honestly shakes me and shatters my heart to hear anyone taking their life. A few weeks ago, two high profile individuals took their lives one after the other in a matter of days. I asked myself how can this happen they had it all: wealth, fame, social status. Then I asked myself, did they have God in their lives? I have taught my son from a very young age that wealth doesn’t necessarily have to do with how much money you have, what car you drive or how big your house is. I have made it a point to always emphasize and remind him that we are filthy rich, the type of wealth that is priceless. We have something many are still searching for. We have Islam as our way of life, we know our purpose in life, Alhamdulillah.

When times get tough we seek for guidance from our Rabb (Lord). Unfortunately many folks today are drowning and are not able to cope. They become infatuated with dunya (worldly life), focusing and putting all their energy and trust on superficial man made things and become so poor that at the end of the day, all they have is money. And when hardship strikes, they look at suicide as a permanent solution for a temporary problem. Suicide is not the answer my friends.

“And do not kill yourselves, for verily Allah is ever-merciful to you.” – Surah al-Nisa, 4:29

There are many vulnerable folks within our circles whom we many not know about and the battles they are fighting within themselves, therefore let’s ar least try to reach out to them. A phone call goes a long way, especially in times of hardship because all they may need is a little compassion and love from those whom they love. Remember:

“Verily, with difficulty there is ease.” – Surah al-Sharh, 94:6

If you know anyone in need of help encourage them to call 911 or 1-800-273-8255. For help with situational depression, call the Muslim helpline at 1-866-NASEEHA. Jazakum Allah khairan

Oh Allah! Only you know the secrets of our heart, so accept our silent wishes and prayers (duas), help us overcome our struggles and forgive us for our mistakes and sins.  Ameen.

Recent Posts