Faith leaders play a pivotal role in supporting mental well-being and averting the tragedy of suicide. Across diverse spiritual and religious faiths, these leaders have a rich history of guiding individuals through life's entire spectrum, offering advice and support from birth to death. They serve as vital wellsprings of hope and strength for their congregations, offering counsel to those in crisis and solace and assistance in the aftermath of a suicide attempt or death.

In the aftermath of a suicide, it is the faith leader who, during a memorial service or funeral, possesses a platform to advocate for help-seeking among those at risk and to emphasize vigilance regarding the risk of suicide within the community. To equip faith leaders with the essential knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary to support those affected by suicide, the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention (Action Alliance) has outlined a set of suicide prevention competencies for faith leaders. These pastoral competencies address the following six areas: 

• Suicide prevention
• Suicide intervention
• Suicide postvention
• Communication
• Leadership, support and mentorship
• Unique organizational ministry settings.