Friday, November 15, 2013

Risky Business Final

  As children grow older and enter a new stage of adolescents, they are faced with new kinds of trials and challenges. Some teenagers go through these years with ease; little worry and thrill filled days. But others find these years more difficult, and have a harder time getting past their hardships. For those who face more difficult times and seek an escape, all options seem viable- including permanent ones, like suicide. Though some believe teen suicide isn’t a major problem in the US, the facts show it is rapidly increasing and things should be done to increase awareness and prevent suicide.
      Suicide, though very real and very tragic, isn't always acknowledged as the real problem it is. According to a recent government study on suicide, between the years of 1990- 2001, suicide amongst teens decreased by 4 percent. That is the most significant decrease in suicide we've seen within the last 20 years. Since then, unfortunately, the numbers on suicide have only gone up with the amount of lives being taken. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention reveals to us that over the past 10 years, the rate of suicide generally increased and by 2010 stood at 12.1 deaths per 100,000. These most recent numbers are the ones that most accurately represent the current issue of teen suicide. It's when you see these numbers that you grasp the realization of suicide amongst teens.
      Though some try to argue against the significance and true issue of teen suicide, the facts reveal the truth about the issue and reality of teen suicide. According to an article published by the New York Times, suicide is the 10th leading cause of death- 3rd leading cause amongst teens specifically.This proves the severity and recurrence of suicide in general, and especially in teens. Because teens are still developing and are particularly vulnerable, they should be made aware of the support they have and should be aware of what they can do, and the help they have access to when in difficult situations.
     Suicide is a problem, and like many other problems, solutions can be found. According to the National Alliance of Mental Illness, over 90 percent of people who commit suicide have been diagnosed with mental illness. Along with increased awareness, studies show that interventions have been used successfully to treat illnesses known to be associated with suicide. If looking to solve the travesty of suicide, and most suicide incidents are caused by the drag of mental illness, common logical thought would be to start with those burdened by mental illnesses. Though suicide isn't something that can be completely eradicated; helping the mentally ill to find another way out would most definitely transform the situation of suicide and the situation of many people's lives.
      Suicide is something that no one likes to acknowledge, and why would you? Its a terribly inconsolable thing that has nothing positive to offer in anyone’s life, and a dejected way to end a life. But suicide is a problem- a problem that continues to worsen day by day. A problem we can take a stand on once we decide to acknowledge it and work towards preventing it.