Suicide continues to stand as third out of the top causes for death among teenagers, following closely behind homicide and car accidents. It is a significantly concerning topic that must be addressed further to ensure the well-being of younger generations.
To begin with, there is a surprisingly outrageous amount of young people that are deemed dead by their own intended actions. In recent years, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that there are approximately 4,400 deaths every year through suicide. It is a somewhat selfish outlet for hopeless and out-of-control emotional breakdowns that the majority of teens experience sometime in their journey to adulthood.

The main conflict that occurs within the minds of troubled young people is the fact that they dwell on problems within the past and present instead of contemplating the future. Individuals who have come from unstable financial situations, abusive backgrounds, bullying experiences, health complications, etc., have historically emerged victorious. Among many, some of these people include scientist Albert Einstein, actor Jim Carrey, business investor Richard Branson, talk-show host Oprah Winfrey, and actress Charlize Theron. Whether or not one’s home or school life is substantial, it is integral for one to acknowledge the high probability of becoming successful. Every person’s life is ultimately in their own hands; opportunities are what one makes of them, and there is always a better option than killing oneself.

Suicide isn’t only something that is sure to take away one’s own future prospects, but it greatly takes a toll on family or friends who have had relations with the deceased. Even acquaintances who don’t seem to communicate with a suicide victim are affected negatively by the empty chair that sits vacant in the classroom. Feelings of loneliness are common, but it is a matter of reaching out and making an effort. Even though someone may not have close friends, they are given resources to take advantage or school counselors or teachers. In continuance, the majority of other high school students are open to new friendship; an individual should attempt conversation with anyone they begin to feel comfortable around. Briefly talking to someone else can make a huge impact upon one’s social happiness.

Astonishingly, two million teens nationwide attempt suicide annually with 700,000 of these attempts requiring hospitalization, as reported by the National Alliance of Mental Illness. In 2012, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released a shocking visualization: every 1 in 6 teenagers have contemplated killing themselves and 1 in 12 has actually tried to do so.  Usually, the precursors to these fatal actions include things like abusing drugs or alcohol, becoming rebellious, an alteration in sleeping and eating rituals, less interest in usual activities, and worsening effort towards schoolwork. There are various other symptoms as well, but the previous continue to be the most alarmingly recognizable predecessors of suicide. The numbers have been rising, and awareness should be a top priority among mentors everywhere.

Everyone has something to offer the world, whether it be academic success, athletic ability, friendliness, love, passion, or advice to others. Instead of choosing a permanent solution to a temporary problem, it is crucial to be optimistic in order to make the best of life in the moment. By trying one’s hardest in school, it is possible to further one’s education and follow personal goals. It isn’t fair to rule out upcoming decades when so many sensational things are bound to occur.

The quality of life for most improves after teenage years expire, so take charge of forthcoming experiences and expel any suicidal thoughts. Don’t amount yourself to one of the statistics; instead, make a difference in the lives of others by transferring negative energy into positive encouragement. It is never too late to start over and disregard the remarks of others, as each person is remarkable in a unique way. This realization doesn’t come overnight, though – it is a matter of not giving up, staying strong, and being able to prevent others from making a mistake that is gravely irreversible.