In 2018, 48,344 Americans died by suicide. Sad right? Did you know that Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the US?  It’s September, Suicide Prevention Month. Suicide is a really serious and important topic we all need to know more about.  

There is a high suicide death rat,e and it affects people that you would never expect. I know many celebrities have gone through it,  a couple of people/friends of mine who have gone through it, and I also personally have.

Brittany Spears– Back in 2007 She tried to commit suicide by walking into oncoming traffic. In the Irish Examiner it says “And after famously shaving off all her hair at a Tarzana, California salon, The pop superstar attempted suicide by walking into oncoming traffic. Sources tell US tabloid the National Enquirer Spears felt Federline’s warning was a threat to seek custody of their baby sons and went into hysterics.” Luckily her attempt didn’t cost her, her life, or else she wouldn’t be with us here today. If she would’ve died, we wouldn’t have any more great songs of hers to listen to.

I asked some students how they felt about Suicide Prevention month and mental health: 

Olivia Osborne- Question 1: Is mental health important to you, if so why? Answer: “Yes it is important because it affects performance in school and sports. If your mental health is bad then your performance will be too.” Question 2: What would you say to the people who are struggling with their mental health or are having suicidal thoughts? Answer: “It gets better. It’s tough, but in the end, it’ll be okay.” 

Kendra Bonwell- Question 1: Is mental health important to you, if so why? Answer: “Yes because I know people who have struggled with it and it’s a very serious topic.” Question 2: What would you say to the people who are struggling with their mental health or are having suicidal thoughts? Answer: “ Talk to someone you trust.” 

Mr. Saavadra-I found out that Mr. Saavadra, one of the Spanish teachers here, is doing a fundraiser with his Spanish class for suicide prevention. He told me that they are currently designing shirts for it, but other than that there is no other information as to when it will be, where it will take place, etc. I asked him why he was doing this fundraiser and he said “ We lost a former player this year and I want to bring awareness to this issue, so other students going through hard times know there are people that care about them.” I also asked him why he thought suicide prevention month is important and he said “ I think that suicide prevention and mental health awareness is important all the time, not just during this month. Our students and teachers also are going through some difficult times and it’s important that we take care of each other.” Olivia Osborne- Question: How do you feel about this fundraiser you guys are planning? Answer: “ Great idea as long as people are serious about it and support the cause.” Kendra Bonwell- Question: How do you feel about this fundraiser you guys are planning? Answer: “It’s very important and needs to be talked about more to raise awareness.”

There are several things that may cause suicide; Suicide can be caused by depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, any other disorders, certain phobias, or maybe when you feel like you’ve disappointed someone. These are some of the many illnesses that lead to suicide.

Depression is a mental health disorder characterized by persistently depressed mood or loss of interest in activities, causing significant impairment in daily life. 

Anxiety is intense, excessive, and persistent worry and fear about everyday situations. Fast heart rate, rapid breathing, sweating, and feeling tired may occur. 

Bipolar disorder is a disorder associated with episodes of mood swings ranging from depressive lows to manic highs. How all of these can be treated is by taking medication and attending therapy. 

The National Suicide hotline is: 1-800-273-8255 For more resources go to https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/