Jarrid Wilson (October 25, 1988 – September 9, 2019) was an American pastor, author, and prominent mental health advocate. He was widely recognized for his work within the Christian community, openly discussing his personal struggles with depression and anxiety to foster greater understanding and support for mental health challenges.
Early Life and Ministry
Born in California, Jarrid Wilson grew up with a passion for ministry and communication. He began his public ministry speaking at churches and conferences, quickly gaining a reputation for his authentic and relatable approach to faith. He later served as an associate pastor at Harvest Christian Fellowship in Riverside, California, under the leadership of Greg Laurie. In this role, he contributed to various outreach initiatives and continued to develop his platform as a speaker and writer.Mental Health Advocacy
Wilson became a leading voice in advocating for mental health awareness, particularly within faith-based circles, where discussions around mental illness have historically been stigmatized. He was a vocal proponent of the idea that mental health struggles are not a sign of spiritual weakness but a legitimate health concern that requires compassion, understanding, and professional care.In 2017, Jarrid and his wife, Juli Wilson, co-founded Anthem of Hope, a Christian non-profit organization dedicated to providing hope and help to those struggling with mental health issues, suicidal thoughts, or self-harm. Through Anthem of Hope, Wilson utilized various platforms, including social media, blog posts, and public speaking engagements, to share resources, stories of hope, and practical advice for navigating mental health challenges from a faith perspective. He actively challenged the stigma associated with mental illness and encouraged open dialogue among Christians.
Works
Wilson authored several books, which often blended personal anecdotes, biblical insights, and practical encouragement. His published works include:- ''Jesus Changed My Life''
- ''Love Is Meant to Be Felt''
- ''30 Words''
He also maintained an active online presence through his personal blog and social media channels, where he shared daily reflections, mental health tips, and messages of hope to a large following.
Death and Legacy
Jarrid Wilson died by suicide on September 9, 2019, at the age of 30. His death sent shockwaves through the Christian community and beyond, bringing renewed and intensified attention to the urgent need for mental health awareness and suicide prevention.His passing underscored the very issues he passionately advocated for and significantly amplified the conversation surrounding mental health within faith contexts. Wilson's legacy continues through Anthem of Hope, which remains active in its mission to provide support and resources. He is remembered as a courageous advocate who broke down barriers, encouraging countless individuals to seek help and fostering a more compassionate and informed approach to mental health within the church and society at large. He was survived by his wife, Juli, and their two sons.