From Deseret News archives:
Some say LDS culture is a factor in suicides
Parents see the ecclesiastical leader of the local ward as someone who can "fix" their child's emotional problems. But while bishops can offer spiritual guidance and some practical advice, they are not psychologists.
And they should not be expected to take on that role, says Elder Alexander Morrison, an emeritus general authority of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. "They should not try to treat mental illness themselves," he said.
Just as people don't hesitate to consult a physician about medical problems such as cancer, heart disease or diabetes, they should not hesitate to obtain appropriate professional assistance for mental illness, he said.
Mental illness, particularly depression and bipolar disorder, are common among young people who take their own lives.
Several parents and mental health professionals interviewed for this series, "Teen suicide: Utah's grim reality," wonder whether the LDS Church's high expectations for young people may contribute to depression and suicide.
Depression runs in her family, and she said she is especially concerned because her 11-year-old son is entering "those years of precarious dips and peaks of emotion."
There's pressure to "live worthy," said Utah Attorney General Mark Shurtleff, an LDS father of five.
Latter-day Saints are counseled to avoid premarital sex, pornography, drugs and alcohol, among other things. Young men and women are taught to live clean lives to prepare for missionary service and marriage in an LDS temple. Those who make a mistake or fall short might lose self-esteem or fall into depression.
The LDS Church helps teenagers deal with life's challenges through weekly spiritual instruction, wholesome group activities, adult mentoring and personal interviews with congregational leaders, according to Fred Riley, director of LDS Family Services.
If a teenager is struggling and needs help, parents and youth leaders can work with their bishops to get professional help, he said in a statement.
Culture's role
Doug Gray, a University of Utah child psychiatrist, said culture does play a big role in Utah's suicide rate but couldn't say it is exclusively attributable to religion.
Recent comments
My son dated a Mormon girl when he was in high school and from what...
Carol | Oct. 14, 2009 at 4:23 p.m.
- Brems outlasts 2nd round of votes 6:06 p.m.
- Boy's quick thinking saves life 6:05 p.m.
- Turner considers County Council run 6:00 p.m.
- Gifts for gamers 5:27 p.m.
- Acquired immunity may not help 5:15 p.m.
- Mitchell called intelligent, controlling 5:11 p.m.
- Many count pennies in recession 5:09 p.m.
- Clinton class sweet on candy 5:06 p.m.
- Alta rejects canyon subdivision 3:33 p.m.
- Adult sports leagues offered 3:19 p.m.
- Hall mouths off about hate of Utah
896 - Cougars beat Utes in overtime
481 - Max Hall issues apology
362 - Hall reprimanded by MWC
316 - Hall's pain reflects self-betrayal
288 - Utes won't respond to Hall
212 - BYU is champion of the state
140 - Man trapped in Nutty Putty cave dies
121 - Cave to be sealed with body inside
119 - Religion in politics is tiresome
96
Live 'Twittologue' Dec. 2, 4:00 p.m. with Jason Chaffetz. Click for more.
I wanted to tell them not to go. I dropped subtle hints. "My money is on...
When I was a kid, I worshipped my grandpa. He was undoubtedly my hero....
Stop begging the question- there is BEER and other alcohol inside of...
Dr. Oz's words if I am reading them correctly, that acquired immunity to a...
["without religion, marriage would not exist. you can't seperate the two"]...
My brother lived in Toronto for 3 years and has horror stories about Canadian...
Are Ute fans really that sensive, I never would have guessed it... Maybe they...
Great article. Totally agree. Max has apologized (although it could have...
Ha ha big win against stanford again this year! yup you sure tore it up!...
Very mature. How did you ever think of "Maxipad?" I'll bet all your third...
@Nothing New Here: Another good reason to find a new energy source!
I have been to RES and know for a fact that there is BEER there!!!!!...

