September 10th is National Suicide Awareness Day. Even though awareness is attempting to spread, suicide is still a rather taboo and sensitive topic. Suicide occurs when a person can no longer rationalize healthy problem solving skills in cases in which their emotional pain is too great. Over the years, suicide has become rather prominent, especially among youth, yet most people know very little about the subject.

Many people don’t like to accept that suicide has become something of an epidemic however according to the Suicide Awareness Voices of Education (SAVE) nearly 30,000 Americans commit suicide every year. On top of that suicide is the third leading cause of death for 15 to 24 year olds. Many people wonder what could cause a person to commit or attempt suicide. More often than not it is due to a mental illness (predominately depression) that has been let undiagnosed, untreated, or poorly treated. However people’s motives for suicide vary from person to person.

Many have misconceptions about people who attempt suicide and often the person who has made the attempt carries much guilt. “I felt selfish but I couldn’t handle the situation and I wish they understood, but I’m glad they all [friends and family] cared enough to visit me,” said an anonymous student, discussing a past suicide attempt. People who attempt or commit suicide often feel like they have no one to talk to or open up to about their emotions. “People would tell me to keep my head up. When I had scars on my arm, only three teachers asked if I was okay and two out of the three asked if I needed help,” the student said when asked if the attempt could have been prevented. This student has been in treatment and has received help.

Suicide Awareness Day is a day for just that, awareness. Often educating people of the causes and warning signs of suicide. Along with small activities to honor the day. Some people where a black ribbon around their wrist on that day to support people struggling with suicidal thoughts, others write the word “love” on their wrist to offer their support and obviously love. When it comes to school systems being involved, many have different opinions on the topic. “Schools should be more involved in suicide awareness. A video of random sadness leading to thoughts of suicide isn’t going to cut it. They need to let students know that they are truly there for them and talk about it as much as they can,” explained a student. Also, when asked if schools should be more involved in suicide awareness, a teacher commented, “Yes, I do But I think in the years we’ve done this prevention program there’s been a shift in people’s attitude towards suicide.”

If you or someone you know might be contemplating suicide, talk to a trusted adult, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255), or use the Crisis Text Line at 741-741.

“Suicide does not end the chances of life getting worse, suicide eliminates the possibility of it ever getting better.”

-Unknown