Blog # 2- Suicide

Blog # 2- Suicide

Suicide is a very serious issue among teens today. Whether it be the stress of school and friends, depression, or any other concern in daily life it affects many teenagers. Over 30,000 people die from suicides every year in America. It is the third leading cause of death for those among the ages of 15-24. Think about it, teenagers who are supposed to be enjoying the “best years of their lives” are so depressed and suicidal that death seems to be the only way out.
For those of you who are suicidal or have loved ones who you think may be here are some of the warning signs. If your loved one or yourself is unusually withdrawn, depressed, pessimistic, or hopeless these are some of the moods that could correspond with suicide. Also if they start drinking more and/or turn to other drugs, or has had recent impulses to take unnecessary risks. Obviously if they are threatening suicide or showing a strong wish to die this is a MAJOR sign and you should seek help immediately. Even if they are resistant or deny being depressed, chances are what you have noticed is real and you could save their life by getting them help.
If you think you or someone you love may be suicidal here is what you should do to help. If it is yourself you are worried about, do not be afraid to seek help immediately. It’s okay to ask to talk or get therapy. If it is your loved one you are worried about remember to take everything they say seriously. Be willing to listen to what they have to say and ask them what’s on their mind or troubling them. Don’t attempt to argue anyone out of committing suicide, this could just make the situation worse. Rather let them know you care and tell them things like, “you have so much to live for” or “do you know how much this will hurt your family?” If this is an immediate danger then don’t be afraid to take your loved one to a hospital or walk in clinic. If that option isn’t available just call your local emergency number or the suicide hotline, 1-800-273- lets talk.
In the Chris Crutcher novel Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes one of the supporting characters, Mark Brittan tries to take his own life. Eric and his friend Ellerby had always picked on him but they didn’t think it bothered him so much. He was always preaching the word of God and telling how abortion was so bad. When in reality he had made his own girlfriend get an abortion. One day she decided to tell her secret to the class and it sent Mark over the edge. He couldn’t handle the pressure and emotion. He thought the only way out was suicide, but luckily he was brought to a hospital in time to save his life.