Shining a Light on Suicidal Ideation

SUICIDE. It is a scary word that no one wants to talk about. However, there is a suicide once every 16 minutes in America. Suicide occurs across all communities and age groups. Suicide rates are increasing among young people and it is now the second leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 15 and 34. The Jewish community is far from immune to these tragedies.

Sam Langstein is a member of the Jewish community who has endured thoughts of suicide since the age of eight. Now in his twenties, Sam has survived multiple suicide attempts while battling silently. He is now coming out of the darkness to become an advocate for the countless other children, teenagers, and young adults who struggle with suicidal ideation.

Sam will share his story of struggle and perseverance this coming Sunday, February 11th, in a Refuat Hanefesh Facebook Live Conversation. He will stir our emotions and open our hearts to a more complex picture of mental illness. Most importantly, you will learn from Sam about the signs he wished people had picked up on and what they could have done to intervene. This will be a unique opportunity to ask questions and hear insights and wisdom from someone who has been to the darkest depths.

The conversation will take place live on the Refuat Hanefesh Facebook page at 8:30pm est on Sunday, February 11th. It can also be viewed on the Refuat Hanefesh Website.