Survey Results

Introduction

In the fall of 2022, Saint John Vianney Center initiated an online survey inviting the leadership of every (arch)diocese and women’s and men’s religious community in the United States to provide insight into their familiarity with and experiences related to suicide, particularly concerning the clergy and men and women religious they serve. A total of 270 individuals in leadership responded to the survey, representing a significant and diverse sample. The survey indicated that suicide and suicidal ideation are common problems among Diocesan Clergy and Men’s and Women’s Religious communities. We learned that 41% of the (arch) dioceses, 10% of the women’s religious communities, and 23% of the men’s religious communities reported experiencing the suicide of a member of the clergy or a man or woman religious. In addition, 26% of the participants indicated that they were aware of a member of the clergy and/or religious currently struggling with suicidal thoughts. Fifty–two percent of the respondents expressed feeling unprepared to assist someone who is experiencing suicidal tendencies. Fortunately, 74% desire to acquire personal intervention skills to address this issue. We believe hiring a Director of Suicide Prevention and Awareness will empower us to develop a comprehensive national program to meet this need and at a high–quality level.