Occasionally, I receive comments from our readers who are in financial
crisis that indicate feelings of hopelessness and despair.
Unfortunately, I’m not in a position to respond to these comments
individually, but I am deeply concerned when I hear that someone is in
danger of losing faith and hope.

I want you all to know how valuable you are. You matter and you
deserve help and support to find your way through your life’s
challenges. If you can allow yourself to reach out, there are many
resources of support available to you, or to offer to someone you sense
may be in need of help.

If you (or someone you know) are feeling depressed, hopeless or in
despair, please reach out to one or more of these resources:

• Reach out to a friend who is a good listener.
• Contact a local minister or rabbi and ask for their help.
• The Samaritans have created an incredible support system for people in despair called
  “the befrienders.” They can be
  reached 24 hours a day for compassionate, non-judgemental emotional
  support. You can speak confidentially with a volunteer on the phone, or
  e-mail them.
• You can also talk to a therapist online at Psych Central.
• There is an online depression support group called “Walkers in Darkness”  where you can connect with others who can offer
  support.
• If you are having suicidal thoughts or feelings, please call 1-800-SUICIDE.
• If you are a teenager in need of help, call Covenant House at 1-800-999-9999.

As a community here on Beliefnet, I’d like to ask those of you who feel
moved to help others during this financial crisis to form a Prayer Circle. Together,
we can pray for those in financial despair to receive personal and
financial help and support they greatly need and deserve.

Please say this prayer for them today:

For I arise today

Through a mighty strength:

God’s power to guide me,

God’s might to uphold me,

God’s eyes to watch over me;

God’s ear to hear me,

God’s word to give me speech,

God’s hand to guard me,

God’s way to lie before me,

God’s shield to shelter me,

God’s host to secure me.


~ Celtic Prayer