Oregon’s Views on Suicide
Suicide is characterized by the direct killing of oneself on one’s authority. It is a grave sin against the natural and revealed law. The natural law is what God has produced in the world of creation; as coming to human beings, it is what they know (or can know) of what God has created. The act of intentionally causing or committing suicide is just as wrong as the act of murder. The act of suicide is denying one’s instinct to live and is a way to avoid and leave behind the responsibilities and duties owed to one’s self, community, and neighbors. ¨Suicide contradicts the natural inclination of the human being to preserve and perpetuate his life. It is gravely contrary to the just love of self.¨ (CCC 2281) Suicide deaths in Oregon are 19.5 per 100,000 people, which is above the national average of 14.0 per 100,000 people. As a state, Oregon is one of the highest spending states on mental health care, but the results show that Oregon is among one of the worst states about acting on it. According to many civilians, doctors, and physicians, even though Oregon spends the most, people report the lack of help and assistance they feel they need. The Church can offer counseling services and support groups to needy individuals, providing a safe and compassionate environment for them to seek help and solace. Additionally, the Church’s emphasis on compassion and forgiveness can help reduce the stigma around mental health issues, encouraging individuals to seek support without fear of judgment.
Moreover, the Church can collaborate with the state government to implement mental health education programs in schools and communities, raising awareness about suicide prevention and providing individuals with the necessary tools to recognize warning signs and offer support to those in crisis. The Church can also use its platform to promote messages of hope, resilience, and the sanctity of life, counteracting narratives of despair and death. By partnering with the Catholic Church, the State of Oregon can harness its resources and work to create a culture of support and understanding where every individual feels valued and supported in their mental health journey. Together, they can move toward a future where suicide is no longer a prevalent issue, and Oregon emerges as a beacon of hope and healing.
