How to Battle Depression and Suicidal Thoughts

by Ray Comfort

Depression and suicide aren’t just a worldwide epidemic, they also hit home. With over 350 million people suffering from depression and an estimated 1 million Americans attempting suicide each year, most of us have been affected by this terrible plague--or perhaps struggle with it ourselves. How can we help those who feel they have no hope?

In this moving fictional account, a caring bystander tries to convince a suicidal young man that his life has value and he has much to live for. Through their conversation, you will discover why we all have great worth, everyone has a reason and purpose for living, no situation is ever hopeless, and suicide is never a good option.

Whether you want to be able to share these truths with others, or you need to hear them yourself, this impactful book will offer a lasting cure for this growing epidemic.

Includes helpful, hope-filled sidebars from the world’s best Counselor.

Genres: Christian, Audiobook, Counselling, Nonfiction, Christianity, Christian Living, Theology

98 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 10, 2017

About the author

Ray is the Founder and CEO of Living Waters and the best–selling author of more than 80 books, including, Hell's Best Kept Secret, Scientific Facts in the Bible, and The Evidence Bible. He co–hosts (with actor Kirk Cameron) the award–winning television program "The Way of the Master," seen in 200 countries. He is also the Executive Producer on the movies "Audacity," "180," "Evolution vs. God," and others, which have been seen by millions. He and his wife, Sue, live in Bellflower, California, where they have three grown children.

Reviews

[Nina · Rating 2 out of 5]

I'm both a Christian and a mental health professional, so I thought this book would be meaningful. I was wrong.

First, let me say that I feel Comfort's apologetics were solid. His scriptural references were apt and insightful, he brought new meaning to familiar stories. Looking beyond the "false conversion" bombshell that he dropped near the end, I think I agree with his theology, on the face of it. But that is a big problem I had with this little book - we never get beyond the face of it. Granted, it's a short book, particularly for a subject as deep as this one, but Comfort merely hinted at the problems, let alone the solutions, involved with depression and suicide. In fact, the solution that he offers is salvation, with memory verses, social support, nutrition, and proper sleep tossed in as afterthoughts.

The part of this book that I find dangerous, frankly, is the character of "John." He is our posterchild for depression: a suicidal, atheistic, fatherless, addicted, post-abortion thief, who has slaughtered his relationships with family and friends. This is not the face of depression! None of those adjectives necessarily belong together, in fact. Comfort is using a convenient stereotype that will work within his evangelical model. Were this real life, "John" would have been off the bridge as soon as Comfort opened his mouth. Or, if he wasn't ready for that yet, he would have popped Comfort in the nose. This is not how depression works. This is not how any of this works!

Why is this dangerous? Because clinical depression hits Christians as hard as it hits anybody else - salvation is not a cure. Depressed Christians already feel ostracized - they don't need to be told to eat right and pray more. They don't need to hear that they are sinners, and God loves them anyway - just repent, for real this time. Clinical depression, despite what Comfort states near the end, has real, chemical causes. Yes, God heals sickness - and sometimes, He uses medication to do it. Please, for the love of your fellow man, do not try this with your depressed (let alone suicidal!) friends and neighbors! Support them, listen to them, be a friend - and leave counseling to the counselors.

[ValeReads Kyriosity · Rating 2 out of 5]

Ray Comfort is far more effective for the Kingdom than I will ever be, but one cannot deny that there's a sort of awkwardness about him...and that's very evident in this book. The book is presented as a story of how Comfort talked a guy out of suicide on the Golden Gate Bridge and led him to Christ. Not sure if it was strictly factual or more of a parable, but it felt a little too awkwardly tidy. Should have been titled something like How I Talked This One Guy Out of Suicide and Here are Some Verses Why It's a Bad Idea. All aimed at the intellect, and not so much as a help to the depressed person, but as a manual for someone who might be trying to help a depressed person. And as such, there was a sad lack of "Weep with those who weep" as being a key component of effective counsel.

[James · Rating 1 out of 5]

This was the September freebie from Christian Audio. It is a cheesy story about the author supposedly encountering someone about to jump off the Golden Gate Bridge, then leading him to Jesus, and then less than 24 hours later. saying stuff like “Hey, a website where I can watch Christian movies for free? Wow! Thanks!!!” My biggest problem is that nowhere does the author actually say “This never really happened.” If he had, he might (emphasis on might) have gotten two stars instead of one. Here are the biggest problems I had with the book, other than the disingenuousness of it, and the fact that it is just poor writing:

1. Not all depression leads to suicide.
2. Not all who suffer from depression and suicidal thoughts are non Christians. The author seems to think that someone could be talked off the ledge simply by being convinced of the truth of Christianity. Nope. Uh uh. False. I don’t believe it would be true for an unbeliever, and it absolutely wouldn’t be true for a believer.
3. It’s irresponsible. For a book titled “How to battle depression and suicidal thoughts,” it would be a disservice to put this in the hands of someone who was ACTUALLY battling depression and suicidal thoughts. It was the equivalent of calling suicide prevention and being put on hold.

[Jeff Turnbough · Rating 1 out of 5]

I do NOT recommend this book. In my opinion, it should be titled "how to witness to someone." In essence, he supposedly talks to a guy on the edge of the Golden Gate Bridge who was considering suicide. The best words I can think of is "lame." First, not all depression leads to suicide. Second, few people attempting to commit suicide would be so agreeable to listen for hours to a Christian witnessing to them. Third, it is blatantly false to think (as the author clearly does), that a real relationship with Jesus cures all depression, and that is the ONLY answer.

In my opinion, this does a disservice to people who suffer from depression and to the gospel.

[Cornell · Rating 2 out of 5]

The title of this booklet is rather misleading. The content is no different from the hundreds of exchanges Ray Comfort usually has on his "Way of the Master" shows.

This seems to be just one more example of Comfort's popular apologetics and fails to significantly address depression.

For instance:

* The book, or rather the fictional anecdote in the book, implies people suffering from depression are not Christians. So he spends more than 80 percent of the dialogue showing why God exists, why all people have sinned, and why it is "reasonable" to believe in God.

* The book seems to make a direct correlation between atheism and depression, leading to more arguments regarding the problem of evil et al. In my experience, I have seen that atheism tends to follow depression rather than the other way round.

It was a good read, if you ignore the cover. Don't expect any significant contribution to the conversation on mental illness in this booklet though. It might as well have been titled "How to Battle Lying... or Stealing..."

[Donald Owens II · Rating 3 out of 5]

Contrary to the titular implication, this is not a how-to book, but a story; a conversation between Ray Comfort and a new convert. While interesting enough, it was not very deep, and came across almost like a promotion of Ray Comfort's evangelistic material.

[Josh Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

A solid primer on the sobering topic of depression & suicidal thoughts. I like that Comfort uses a fictional story to engage the reader on such a serious topic. However, just because he uses fiction to tell a story doesn't mean he minces truths that need to be shared regarding suicide/depression.

In my opinion (as with the author), one cannot effectively deal with depression/suicide without addressing the spiritual aspect of mankind. We were made in the image of God and when we try to "rescue" or "make whole" an individual only by way of the physical or the soul (mind, intellect, emotions) without addressing the spirit, we cannot adequately help an individual.

Several key components that I love about this book: 1) the book is a short read (only 93 pages). This is important in today's society as many do not like to read. 2) throughout the story, there are "sidebars" with Scriptures on different topics presented. The following topics are presented with Scriptures: You Are Not Alone, Call On God For Help, You Are Loved, There Is Hope, You Can Trust God, The Bible on Suicide, Your Guilt Can Be Removed, and Your Life Has a Purpose. 3) the Gospel is presented through the fictional story. The Gospel (good news) is the answer and needs to be shared with the masses. This book does a good job of sharing the key components of the Gospel. 4) this book is inexpensive. I plan to purchase cases of them to give away to people. I can envision giving them away on trains and in downtown areas.

[Mark Donald · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 stars

Quick read. Some helpful apologetics and clear on the gospel, but the scenario seemed a bit “staged” and simplistic. The character John felt like a stereotype more than a real person.

Some good verses to help think through battling depression but as someone who has struggled with anxiety and depression it felt quite unrealistic in how quickly to imagine someone’s entire worldview and outlook would be transformed, not impossible with God, but also not promised!

[Tim · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the form of a dialogue with a young man on the edge of a bridge, Ray Comfort makes the case for belief in God and forgiveness in Christ as the source of hope.

[Andy Erickson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good book just poor title. It’s more of a conversion story of someone battling suicide. Encouraging story but just not what the title says it is.

[benebean · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good book/case study.

A lot of reviewers seem upset at Ray Comfort, saying he said all depression can be solved by becoming a Christian. If he said that anywhere in this book, I missed it. I know depression can manifest in many different ways just as many illnesses can manifest in many different ways. I've heard people share their stories like this where their whole life changed upon becoming Christian and they no longer struggled with depression. I know this doesn't happen to everyone, but I believe it happens to some. I'm also well aware that there are faithful Christians who spend their entire lives fighting depression.

I'm glad Ray Comfort wrote this book to give people like me some idea of where you might start should I encounter some ready to jump off a bridge.

[Noel Burke · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wasn't sure what this book would entail but it did seem interesting. I found out that it was a story rather than a self help on how to help others. A story of a man about to jump off of a bridge to end his life and how Ray Comfort shared Christ with him. I felt that it was a great story to help share how to help people in this situation.

[Monica Rubombora · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Church member shared this book on a WhatsApp forum after an animated debate on the same topic. I had no intention of reading it in one sitting, but I’ve just done precisely that, as the book is a page-turner. Overall, it is an easy read & shorter than I expected, as notes take up quite a few pages towards the end.

In “How to Battle Depression & Suicidal Thoughts,” the author, Ray Comfort, tackles the pervasive issues of depression and suicide with a unique narrative approach.

It notes that over 350 million people suffer from depression, and about 1 million Americans attempt suicide annually.

The book is structured as a dialogue where a caring bystander engages in a life-changing conversation with a suicidal young man.

Through their conversation, readers gain insights into the intrinsic value of life, the unique purpose each person holds, and the importance of maintaining hope in dark times. It is a reminder that no situation is entirely hopeless and that suicide should never be an option.

To bolster its message, it includes supportive sidebars filled with hope and advice from what it refers to as the World’s best Counselor —God.

The author’s writing comes across as accessible & compassionate, making it a valuable read that could potentially be a lifesaver for many and a source of comfort for those who are struggling with depression and those who want to support others.

[Alina · Rating 1 out of 5]

It tells the story of a fictional character John that wants to end its life and a Good “Samaritan” stopping him and talking about God. It basically guilts John by pointing out to him that he’s a sinner (by asking him questions such as “have you ever lied or looked at a woman lustfully) and by ending his life , he won’t get a chance to “make it right” or “ask for forgiveness” and therefore end up in hell. *Facepalm … … to add that in the book it’s says that all the atrocities in the world like child abuse and sexual assault will be punished in hell and in the same sentence that sinners on earth are given a chance to ask for forgiveness for our sins … huh?
What about the kids that suffered the said abuse? Are they sinners too? Where is God then ? In the book , the “Samaritan” keeps reading verses from the bible that “pray to god and he will hear you and be there for you etc” … I’m sure all the kids enduring abuse begged God with hot tears for the abuse to end (including myself)… and did it end? Yes , after years of mental fckery and now I’m damaged beyond repair … this book will make you more angry … don’t bother !

[Stephen Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book almost entirely recounts a conversation between the author and a man named John standing on the Golden Gate Bridge wanting to jump. The man converts and genuinely pursues god. I anticipate that this book would be encouraging for someone in a difficult time with similar struggles as the man on the ledge, but otherwise I personally didn’t receive much to support me in my own struggles.

I’m not sure John is a real person. He seemed a bit more like a caricature, or maybe a personality constructed to fit the narrative. Comforts advice is good and his apologetics are helpful if not elementary. My concern is that this book will cause Christians that don’t suffer from depression to totally misunderstand Christians who do. Depression is a nasty disease and is not the result of some bad life circumstances (as is with John).

Still, it’s a good read (I did audio book) and it can be completed in a single sitting or car trip.

[Jordana Khan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Short and simple story. Would recommend for those who are new believers or recently saved or considering Christianity. However at some points the reader can tell that the interactions were obviously works of fiction and the story didn't flow as well because of it. The conversation was a bit incredible to me because of where the setting of the majority of the story took place and because of the ages of the two main characters. It's difficult to imagine a logical discussion like that happening in the circumstances the book presented but the message was clear and the arguements highlighted are ones that should be meditated on for all who want to develop a strong foundation for their faith and an unquestionable purpose for their life in Christ.

[Sara · Rating 3 out of 5]

I listened to this because it was a free Christian Audio book.
It is aimed primarily at non Christians, though the title does not suggest this. It is true Ray Comfort; an evangelistic talk on this topic, which aims to gently corral the listener to come to faith. The same steps he uses in all his books was used; the Ten Commandments as a back drop for admitting One is not right before God.

It was fine, though the storyline script of him talking to a man wanting to jump from a bridge did seem at times like a good script and not what would happen in real life.

[Jamie · Rating 2 out of 5]

I would not recommend this book.
Ray Comfort is a great apologist.
Unfortunately this book makes it seem like those who struggle with depression can easily solve their problems by learning a few of the right scriptures. This should be called a story of helping a friend who almost committed suicide (if indeed this story is real). I would not recommend this book to someone struggling with depression or someone trying to help someone with depression. I would recommend resources from CCEF or Desiring God.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Told as a fictional account of a man who takes a walk on the Golden Gate Bridge and comes across another man who is planning to jump, this book is a walk through the gospel message. It is not a traditional how to book and some parts are quite convenient and unrealistic in how the suicidal man responds to the other man, but it's still very good (and short, which is great for a depressed person who may not have a long attention span).

[Kristen Harper · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this short read, Ray tackled a challenging life issue with care and compassion in a fiction format. Read this book if you struggle with depression or suicidal thoughts. Read this book if you want to be prepared to talk to a friend or family member struggling, too. Read this book if you wonder why so my famous people struggle with depression or commit suicide. The only spoiler I'll share is that there is hope!

[Patrick · Rating 3 out of 5]

The book was basically accurate in its theology, but painted an overly rosy picture of overcoming suicide. God is able and the scenario presented in this book, whether a true story or fiction, may have happened but in my experience it is no way that simple and radical. Jesus is the answer. Don't get me wrong, but I was hoping that this book would give various concepts to share with those struggling. And it did not unfurl that hope.

[Artemis Nguyen · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book has absolutely nothing to offer depressed or suicidal Christians. It is merely a fictional (and implausible) story of a young atheist who is converted to Christianity on the ledge of a bridge and suddenly finds all his despair gone in a mere day. Absurd, and I would even suggest insulting to many people (including Christians) who struggle with depression.

Still 2 stars because it has some good Bible verses in it.

[Josiah Richardson · Rating 2 out of 5]

I got this book to learn about what the title says. Unfortunately, it has little to nothing to do with battling those type of thoughts. It was a fictional verbal exchange between Ray and a man who was contemplating jumping off a bridge; Ray attempts to talk him down by giving him the way of the master message. So, yeah.

[Nicole · Rating 2 out of 5]

I think this book had some good apologetics for Christians. However, the name is a little deceiving. I liked some of the focus on hope, but it appeared to negate the scientific brain impact of depression. It also emphasized at one point that sin caused depression. So as a Christian social worker, it was hard to agree with much of the book.

[Joshua · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was able to listen to this in one car-ride. While many people are convinced that "clinical" depression has primarily medical cures, Comfort offers a gospel-response and not primarily a medical one. I was not sure whether or not this was a real story by the end, or a parabolic one, but it was a helpful read with good storytelling and kept me interested the whole time.

[Steph · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was more of a storyline of Ray preaching the Gospel to someone who was depressed and on the ledge contemplating suicide. I can’t give a low rating for the book cause hey, it’s the gospel but the title of the book is kinda misleading. Good story though

[Esteban Villarreal · Rating 2 out of 5]

I agree with Ray Comfort's theology and his strong apologetics. This book is more focus towards salvation but I don't know if Ray tackles how to deal with chronical depression bebides to memorize scripture.

[Stephen Stripling · Rating 3 out of 5]

While this book may provide some helpful talking points for those wanting to be better euipped to think about these topics and help others who may be struggling, it wouldn't be my first recommendation by any means.

[Sally · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this to be hopeful and encouraging as was the voice of the reader.
A different title reflecting spiritual hope found in scripture would be more accurate.
*Received this as a free Audiobook from Christian Audio.

[Neh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mr Ray Comfort is a genius imbued with passion for evangelism. He ought to be a role model for all Christians.