TABOO
- Patsy Wright
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
Domestic Abuse, Divorce and Suicide
The above are three words that are usually taboo, especially in the church community. However they are important subjects that touch many people’s lives.
It is Suicide Awareness Day on 10th September 2025, and World Mental Health Day is later on 10th October 2025. Often, when our brothers and sisters have mental health, psychological, or emotional problems and are unwell mentally rather than physically, they can be ignored or avoided. We all know of instances where a card and flowers have been sent to colleagues who have been diagnosed with cancer or suffered a broken hip. However, for some reason, prayers, visits, and practical support are often less forthcoming for those who are suffering from depression, anxiety, or even a broken relationship.
Domestic Abuse, which often happens behind closed doors, is another instance where people often feel reluctant to reach out. The abuse can often take a non-physical form, involving emotional abuse, neglect, or coercive and financial control. Many times the victim can mistakenly believe, due to biblical teaching, that if they are married, they are trapped and can never escape. The outward signs of domestic abuse may not be bruises or broken bones, but a broken spirit, low self-esteem, isolation, loneliness, shame, and withdrawal.
Divorce, the final ‘difficult’ topic, can be a painful journey, from consideration to coming to a decision and beyond. As mentioned, the feelings of shame, failure, and grief are immense and can sometimes be worse than dealing with an actual death. Those who are widowed often receive support, but those who are divorced are again ignored and sometimes avoided.
God is the One who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God (2 Corinthians 1:4 (NIV)). I write these words because I have been led to by Him. I know that just being aware that I am not the only one who has gone through these particular trials is of enormous comfort, and I give thanks to those of you who have shared your experience with me, in private. There have been times when I have lost hope, but it is only the love of Jesus that has kept me alive.
There is also practical help for all the topics mentioned, as follows:-
221 Divorce Support is a SELF-HELP not-for-profit organisation, committed to providing essential support to those who are suffering from the break-up of their marriage or long-term partnership. The next meeting in Northampton will be held on Monday 8th September 2025 at St Benedict Church, Hunsbury.
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