On December 12th the Federal Communications Commision,  approved to change the National Suicide Hotline to 988 to increase its effectiveness. With this new act being passed, it brings more light to the tragedy of suicide. While not everyone is affected by suicidal thoughts, it is still good to know the facts and signs to help others.

Suicide is ranked as one of the highest causes of death in the United States. According to America’s Health Rankings, it is the second leading cause of death among 15-29 year olds. In 2017 alone, there were 6,200 reported suicide deaths among 14-24 year olds. Knowing more about suicide can help prevent this number from increasing.

Studies from the 2017 Youth Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System show that in 2017 17.4% of high school students considered suicide and 7.4% comitted suicide. White females are more likely to attempt suicide while males are more likely to die by suicide. Certain racial and ethnic groups, LGBTQ members are more likely to commit or consider suicide. Those who have experienced abuse, loss of a loved one, mental disorder, and bullying are also more likely to commit or consider suicide. A sophomore at Bethel High School, Zachary Greene, knows a relative that has attempted suicide, when asked how it made him feel he said, “It made me feel terrible that they were in such a dark place and I couldn’t do anything to help.” Another sophomore at Bethel High School by the name of Arianna Creasmen knows a friend who attempted suicide, she said “Yes, it made me feel confused,” when asked the same thing. However, suicide isn’t just a problem in America, in October Sulli, a korean pop star, died by suicide in her home in South Korea. Even if many are not familiar with her or her genre of music, it just shows that everyone is affected by suicide.

As stated by SAVE, some signs that someone may be considering suicide are talking about wanting to die/kill themselves, feeling hopeless, or about feeling trapped or in pain. Other signs are sleeping too little or too much, acting anxious, agitated or reckless, withdrawing or feeling isolated, and displaying extreme mood swings.

If you or a loved one are considering suicide, call the National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273-8255. Remember, you are not alone in your feelings. You are loved and cared for.