Suicide is the eighth leading cause of death in the U.S., and the third leading cause of death among young people age 15-24 (after traffic accidents). In addition, for every teenage suicide, there are more than 100 unsuccessful attempts, and "copycat" suicides spread the tragedy even further.

I’m going through a lot of mood swings and I don’t like who I am. Sometimes I think about committing suicide. Why is this happening?
Many adolescents experience mood swings and depression. This is partly related to the biological, developmental and emotional changes associated with puberty. However, if you are beginning to dislike yourself and feel unworthy of other people’s attention, it is time to seek counseling services. Counselors who work with teens are trained to treat exactly the symptoms that you are describing. With help, you will be able to value yourself as the unique person you are, just as your family does.

I don’t want to tell my parents what I’m thinking about. Where do I turn for help?
The first step is realizing you need help. Unfortunately, you’re not alone in not wanting to talk to your parents about your emotions. When you’re feeling badly about yourself, it can be really hard to let someone else know. But you deserve to get some help. Talk to your doctor, the guidance counselor at school, the school nurse, a teacher you trust, a neighbor or a religious leader. If it’s just too hard to start talking to someone, you could even write a short note, hand it to the person, and wait while he or she reads it.

Calling a hotline would also be beneficial. This gives you the opportunity to talk to someone confidentially while still getting the help you need. The people who answer the calls received through the hotline are trained experts who will listen to your problems. Many times, they will also refer you to local resources, such as a counseling service, that will be able to help you further.

No one will care if I commit suicide. Why shouldn’t I do it?
By committing suicide, you don’t only hurt yourself, you hurt everyone who loves and cares for you. They are left behind with the question of “why.” Why did my daughter kill herself? Why didn’t my son talk to me? People do care about you, but they may not be expressing it enough for you to recognize it. That’s why it is important to talk to someone about your feelings. When you keep things bottled up it makes it difficult to see what actually may be happening. You continue to focus on what’s bothering you and before long what may have started as a minor problem has become something painful and intolerable.

You’re worth it – TALK TO SOMEONE TODAY.

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