Contrary to the widely held belief that suicide is an irreversible answer to a temporary issue, I disagree because there are numerous alternatives and solutions. This is precisely why I have decided to address this subject – to increase awareness about this widespread societal problem. Instead of succumbing to accidents, cancer or other illnesses every year, many people opt for intentionally ending their own lives. Suicide is often thought to arise from trivial matters that hold less importance than one’s own existence.
“Suicide” has a significant effect on individuals, shaping their outlook on life and driving them to opt for self-destruction. Despite widespread media attention, self-harm persists with detrimental outcomes for teenagers. In the United States, suicide ranks as the eighth most common cause of death, with approximately 12 out of every 100,000 people choosing to take their own lives. Among young adults aged 15 to 24, it stands as the third highest cause of death, leading to roughly 10 out of every 100,000 teenagers deciding to end their lives.
In 2001, there were a total of 3971 suicides among teenagers aged 15 to 24. Males accounted for 86% while females accounted for 14%. The variation in suicide rates between male and female teenagers can be attributed to the preference of males for weapons and females for pills. Moreover, males are more prone to suicidal tendencies compared to females. It is astonishing that some individuals view suicide as a simple solution to their problems. Numerous misconceptions and untrue beliefs exist regarding teenage suicide.
Teen suicide is primarily caused by mental illness, but there are multiple factors that contribute to this tragic outcome. Bullying, anxiety or depression, drug and alcohol abuse, as well as physical or sexual abuse are all common causes of teen suicide. In today’s society, bullying has become a major factor in teen suicides and remains a significant issue within schools for an extended period of time.
Although bullying is being recognized more than before, further steps need to be taken in order to prevent it. Bullying tends to occur mostly during elementary and high school years due to peer pressure. Many people have encountered bullying at some point in their lives, either as targets or perpetrators. ABC news reports that approximately 30 percent of students can be categorized as either bullies or victims.
There are different theories about what causes individuals to become bullies, but a popular belief is that once someone becomes a victim of bullying, they will always be targeted. However, not everyone agrees with this assumption. Yale University conducted research that shows people who have been bullied are 2 to 9 times more likely to think about committing suicide compared to those who have not experienced mistreatment. The tragic story of Tyler Clementi illustrates this heartbreaking result – while he was a freshman at Rutgers University, he sadly decided to take his own life by jumping off the George Washington Bridge after enduring sexual bullying from his peers.
Bullying is a significant issue in today’s society, impacting individuals of various ages and negatively affecting their overall health. Those who contemplate suicide frequently exhibit signs indicating their distress. By valuing our own well-being, we can better persuade our loved ones that life is valuable despite the obstacles they encounter. To discourage teenagers from participating in harmful behaviors, three strategies are essential.
The options for dealing with depression include counseling, therapy, and support. However, it is important to consider seeking help as a last resort due to the potential higher risk of suicide linked to antidepressants. The most effective approach involves having a strong support system in place. When children receive support and guidance from their family, friends, and community, it enhances their emotional well-being. If we become aware that someone close to us, whether they are a friend or family member, is contemplating suicide, it is imperative that we promptly offer our assistance before their thoughts worsen.
There are various ways to seek help, such as dialing (1800) SUICIDE for immediate assistance or consulting a doctor who can provide a referral to a psychiatrist. Suicide not only harms the person involved but also affects their family and loved ones. There are solutions available to eradicate bullying and provide support to those affected by it. It is crucial for parents, teachers, friends, and school authorities to address this issue collectively as it necessitates urgent attention.
