Teen Suicide: A Crisis in America Today

Hannah was a friendly, happy young girl during the first year of middle school, then her world started spinning out of control. In the seventh grade she began cutting her wrists with broken pieces of glass to relieve her inner pain. By the end of the year depression had completely consumed her. In the depths of her depression she had no hope that her suffering would end.

One night when Hannah thought everyone is her household was asleep she went out into her front yard to attempt suicide. She grabbed a medium sized rope and a stool. As she adjusted the rope over a tree limb she believed that what she was doing was right. There was no purpose to live any longer, the pain had become to great to bear. As she stood on the stool she slowly put the rope over her head. Not thinking twice she slowly slid off of the stool.

At that moment her ten year old sister came outside and witnessed what was occurring. She ran inside screaming for her father's help. Hannah's father ran outside to be greeted by his daughter slowly loosing consciousness. In a moment of panic and dread he raced to his daughter's aid and loosed the rope from around her neck.

After Hannah regained consciousness she was still depressed and wished that her father had not thwarted her suicide attempt. Her parents had tried to get her to go to counseling but she refused. Eventually she realized that if she were to live she needed to get help.

Hannah started going to counseling and was put on anti-depressants. Gradually she regained a semblance of hope. Since the dark night outside of her home she has slowly been putting the broken pieces of her life back together. She is communicating more with her friends and family and doesn't think of ending her life as often.

Teen suicide is the third leading cause of death for individuals between the ages of 15 and 24. African Americans have the highest rate of teen suicide in the nation.Teen suicide mainly occurs due to depression. There are other factors that trigger the thought of suicide such as; a negative view of oneself, rejection of any type, living conditions and family problems. There are many signs that a teen may be suicidal but oftentimes they go unrecognized. Some of the more common signs that a teenager may be suicidal are:

Extreme personality changes or mood swings

Loss of interest in activities that used to be enjoyable

Significant loss or increase in appetite

Difficulty falling asleep or wanting to sleep all day

Fatigue or loss of energy

Feelings of worthlessness or guilt

Withdrawal from family and friends

Neglect of personal appearance or hygiene

Sadness, irritability, or indifference

Having trouble concentrating

Extreme anxiety or panic

Drug or alcohol use or abuse

Aggressive, destructive, or defiant behavior

Poor school performance

Hallucinations or unusual beliefs

There are many ways to help a teenager who is depressed or may have suicidal thoughts. Being aware of the warning signs is important. If you know a young adult who is exhibiting any of the signs listed above get them help immediately. Waiting can be the difference between life and death. If you are a teenager who is suffering talk to your family or to a friend. Opening up is the first step to getting the help that is so desperately needed. Suicide has never been or will it ever be the answer.