By Katlyn Marotz, Senior Managing News Editor
National Suicide Prevention Week stands as an important time for teenagers in the United States to help recognize where suicide stems from and how to prevent it.
According to a 2019 report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide was the 10th leading cause of death for the United States overall and was the second leading cause of death for people between the age groups of 10 to 34.
“People recognize that suicide is a real problem but go on with their lives,” Justus Wilhoit, Kenosha, Wisconsin senior who attends Indian Trail High School, said about individuals’ actions. “I think what Suicide Prevention Week represents is trying to find the root of the problem and really taking a deeper look into why people are feeling the way they feel.”
Jennifer Roman, another Kenosha senior who attends Bradford High School, said it was an important time to spread awareness for those who are struggling.
“No one should be feeling hopeless to the point where they’re better off gone.”
~ Jennifer Roman, Bradford High School senior
To help prevent rates from increasing, both teens agree that having people around and being able to confide in them is one of the most important ways to help prevent suicide.
“We should also be more observant with people, and if we see something we’re worried about, we should try to do something about it and reach out ourselves to make sure they’re okay,” Roman said. “No one should be feeling hopeless to the point where they’re better off gone.”
She also suggested factors that may contribute to suicide rates not slowing now include discrimination remaining common for young people and a fearfulness of being looked at as weak.
A 2020 CDC report shows that suicide rates for the 10-24 age group increased 57.4% from 6.8 per 100,000 in 2007 to 10.7 in 2018.
One known stressor causing suicidal thoughts is climate change. Roman said overthinking and worrying about the future state of our Earth can lead to depression or suicidal thinking. It scares her knowing the Earth might not be survivable for future generations.
“It could cause severe anxiety to the point where people fear for the future which could cause suicidal thoughts,” she said. “It is scary thinking about the future.”
In the end, suicide can be prevented, but only if people come together to support one another, and listen to each other.
“Do the things you love, take care of yourself, and focus on the people and things that bring you happiness,” Wilhoit said. “Our youth are our future, and we need them to be okay mentally.”