Suicide Prevention

In 2007, there were 34,598 suicides in the United States. This equates to approximately 95 suicides ever day. Suicide is the eleventh cause of death in the United States. Over the past couple of years, there have been a few cases of suicide in our school system. Families have lost loved ones, friends have lost friends, and we have felt the loss that suicide has caused in our community.

Recently, a Canadian teenager, named Amanda Todd, committed suicide. She was bullied heavily by her peers at school and over the internet.She felt alone and helpless; she had no one to go to for help. She ultimately decided that suicide was the only way out, but before she committed suicide, she created a YouTube video telling her story and explaining how she felt. This video has gotten over seventeen million views. Her story has inspired many individuals to talk to someone about their issues and have them resolved through a more appropriate solution.  

Demi Lovato has recently come out about some of her depression and other issues she has been dealing with for awhile. She says that she has been depressed and had bulimia. Bulimia is “an illness in which a person binges on food or has regular episodes of overeating and feels a loss of control. The person then uses different methods -- such as vomiting or abusing laxatives -- to prevent weight gain.” She has also admitted to cutting herself in the past. She reached out for help and got it. She has set an example for young teens. Many teenagers have told Demi that she encouraged them to get help by telling her story and not trying to hide her problem.  

If you are feeling depressed or suicidal, don't forget that there is always another way out. I know that it may not seem like it, but try to hold on. You can consult a trusted adult about your feelings. If you know someone who is considering suicide, you have to speak up. The worst thing that you can do is keep it a secret. Don't promise your friend that you won't say anything. If you dont say anything then you could regret it if they follow through with their plans.You can tell a trusted adult. That could be a parent, teacher or a counselor.

                                                                                                                                                         Remember that there are warning signs in people who are considering suicide.                                               These include:

• Giving away personal items
• Change in appearance
• Talking about death
• Taking more risks
• Loss of interest in things that used to be important
• Making a will
• Saying goodbye.