In Community Fat Neil decides he is sick and tired of being called Fat Neil and decides to kill himself. In an attempt to prevent this from happening the study group comes to Neil's side and plays dungeons and dragons with him in order to show that he has friends and meaning.
Self-harm is becoming more and more prevalent among young teens and it something that needs to be addressed. I was reading about the different statistics and causes of self harm and it is pretty scary. http://www.therefuge-ahealingplace.com/co-occurring/self-injury/effects-symptoms-signs#Statistics
From reading this it almost seems like it is a losing battle but there are a few different things to keep in mind when dealing with a teen who struggles with these issues.
1) Understand that these are real issues that real teens struggle with
Don't just ignore it and pretend like it doesn't exist!!
2) When dealing with these issues go in with the right mindset and motives
Don't go into it thinking that YOU are going to change anything or that YOU are going to be
the hero of the story
3) Present them with genuine love and genuine hope
The love and hope that is found in Jesus Christ of course!!
4) Don't pity them just love them!!
Love needed to mentioned twice because it is so important
5) Support them and let them know that you are there for them!!
PRAY!!
In the episode of community the group gathered around Neil. Unfortunately Jeff wanted to do it because he was the one who started calling him Fat Neil and he felt bad. That is an example of a bad motive but that groups effort to surround him and show him friendship spoke volumes and Neil is still showing up here or there in future episodes!!
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