We were deeply saddened to learn of Jarrid Wilson’s passing on the evening of September 9. His passionate and authentic faith inspired thousands. Justin Marr, who worked closely with Jarrid as Managing Editor, shares his thoughts on Jarrid Wilson’s life and work.
Along with many others, I was heartbroken by the news of Jarrid Wilson’s passing. While I knew him mostly in a professional setting, he treated me more like a friend than a publishing partner. Whenever we spoke, I could count on it being an uplifting and refreshing experience. He had a gift for writing and understood the redemptive power of sharing one’s story.
Jarrid was an incredibly encouraging and positive figure, but he wasn’t afraid to share his struggles with depression and suicidal thoughts. It takes immense courage to disclose something so deeply difficult and painful with the world, and Jarrid did so with humility and honesty. In addition to being open about his own suffering, he also sought to help others by advocating for mental health. Together with his wife, he founded the non-profit Anthem of Hope—“a Christian mental health organization dedicated to amplifying hope to those battling brokenness, depression, anxiety, self-harm, addiction and suicide.”
Jarrid knew the importance of mental health awareness and support, especially regarding suicide. According to the CDC, suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States. In 2017, 10.6 million American adults seriously thought about suicide.
In remembrance of Jarrid, we can all do more to help prevent suicide. For example, we can know the risk factors and we can recognize the warning signs. The CDC also recommends 5 practical steps (from #BeThe1To) that everyone can follow to help prevent suicide:
- Ask someone you are worried about if they’re thinking about suicide.
- Keep them safe. Reduce access to lethal means for those at risk.
- Be there with them. Listen to what they need.
- Help them connect with ongoing support like the lifeline (1-800-273-8255).
- Follow up to see how they’re doing.
Jarrid’s words, writings, and influence helped increase awareness and reduce stigma for many who are struggling. We do not have to look far to see the many beautiful and kind-hearted ways he made the world a better place. Jarrid was a bright spot in the world that will be profoundly missed.
“God is the author of all hope. Hope brightens the darkened soul; it breaks the slave’s chains; it sustains those in spiritual exile and comforts those in a place of suffering.”
—Jarrid Wilson
If you would like to donate to a GoFundMe to help Jarrid’s family, you can find it here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/a-tribute-to-jarrid-wilson
If you or someone you know is in crisis, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or visit www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org.