Teen suicide stories are increasing. Families and friends are devastated even if death does not occur. The CDC reports before the pandemic youth mental health in general was declining, and teenagers are a high-risk group. Youth suicide rates increased 60% since 2011, although, the highest rate of suicides is in adults over the age of 85. There are a plethora of reasons people take their own lives: health issues, drugs, mental illnesses, loneliness, experiencing violence, hopelessness…
The CDC’s Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance Data Summary & Trends Report: 2011-2021 reports:
- In 2021, more than 4 in 10 (42%) students felt persistently sad or hopeless and nearly one-third (29%) experienced poor mental health.
- In 2021, more than 1 in 5 (22%) students seriously considered attempting suicide and 1 in 10 (10%) attempted suicide.
Suicide is mostly preventable. Emotional support is available. The Suicide and Crisis hotline at 788 has trained counselors available 24/7. The CDC suggests better outcomes for teens with school 4connectiveness. Bremen Township Wellness Center youth and family services offers a safe, confidential space to get assistance, hang out, chat, and connect with compassionate, non-judgmental therapists. We are here to provide support—as much or as little as needed. Individual therapy is also available. Please call 708-419-4100 for more information. Services provided are free of charge.
Dr. Michele Ferraro is the Director of Bremen Township Wellness Center Youth and Family Services, 15350 Oak Park Avenue, Oak Forest, IL 708-419-4100.