Reverend Jermine Alberty joins Dr. Janice Moore for a powerful, life-saving conversation about the alarming rise in suicide rates among Black youth and how faith communities can respond with both spiritual wisdom and practical support.

The statistics are sobering: suicide is the third leading cause of death for African-American youth ages 10-24, with rates increasing by 144% between 2007-2020. For young Black men, the suicide rate is over four times higher than for young women. Behind these numbers are real souls in pain—individuals who need to know they're not alone.

Drawing from his personal journey as both a pastor and father who walked alongside his own son through a suicide attempt at age 17, Reverend Alberty shares wisdom that bridges faith and mental health support. He offers clear guidance on recognizing warning signs, responding to crisis situations, and creating environments where honest conversations about pain can happen without judgment. His direct approach cuts through stigma with two crucial questions that could save a life: "Are you having thoughts of suicide?" and "Are you thinking about killing yourself?"

The conversation explores the cultural complexities of resilience messaging in Black communities, where phrases like "we survived slavery, we can survive anything" or "what goes on in this house stays in this house" can inadvertently discourage seeking help. Reverend Alberty introduces his HELP model (Hear compassionately, Engage openly, Learn perspectives, Plan next steps) and emphasizes that faith and professional mental health support should be partners, not competitors, in the healing journey.

Whether you're a faith leader, parent, mentor, or someone struggling with your own mental health challenges, this episode provides practical tools, spiritual wisdom, and the crucial reminder that you are not alone. Remember: 988 is the number to call, text, or chat for immediate crisis support. One soul truly does matter.