Looking for Hope: Start Here

Dean Sikes and those who work with our youmatter.us ministry are not licensed counselors or qualified for crisis service. The information we provide is for inspirational purposes only because we truly care. We are a non-profit organization and cannot provide any medical, psychological, diagnostic or treatment services. Our goal is simply to offer hope and encouragement and hopefully prevent suicide, injury or death, however we cannot guarantee these results. The diagnosis and treatment of depression and other psychiatric disorders should be performed by licensed health care professionals.

If you feel you are in crisis, please text or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988. It is a free hotline that provides access to trained and caring telephone counselors, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you are in an emergency, call 911 or go immediately to your nearest emergency room.

Also, we do try to answer letters and emails we receive. We simply cannot assume any obligation, legal or otherwise, to follow up with people. We are not staffed sufficiently to be responsible for correspondence not answered or delivered in a timely manner or for the final actions of someone receiving any of our correspondence.

The resources provided on this page are intended solely for informational and support purposes. While we have selected these links based on their potential to offer help and encouragement to those struggling with thoughts of suicide, we do not own, manage, or officially endorse the content of any external websites listed here. We are not responsible for the accuracy, effectiveness, or safety of these third-party resources. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or experiencing a crisis, please contact emergency services or a qualified mental health professional right away.

Also note, suicide is never the answer. Where there is life, there is hope.