Addressing youth suicide crisis

The recent report on youth suicides in Connecticut cast a stark light on a growing crisis: our children are facing challenges that are leading to increasingly younger ages of suicide and suicide attempts.

Tragically, between January 2016 and September 2022, 48 children aged 10 to 17 lost their lives to suicide. However, our focus cannot solely be on the grim statistics. There are massive gaps in our behavioral health system and this is where we can find solutions and accomplish change. Our state is witnessing a shortfall in available resources for behavioral health treatment as other areas are prioritized for funds. This leaves our young people in a difficult place, lacking a connection to the school community and crucial support systems.

Mental health care must focus on preventative care, similar to physical health check-ups. Parents can normalize conversations about mental health wellness, acknowledging our challenges (big and small), and seeking help as necessary steps toward healing. One idea is to think about our mental health as we think about our physical health. Just as paying attention to what we eat and exercising a bit every day lowers our chances of our body breaking down. In the same way, having access to someone to talk to when we are feeling confused or frustrated a little bit every day can lower the chances of having a mental health crisis. Sometimes, getting rid of some of our emotional weight can be just as important as getting rid of some of our physical weight.

Our focus should advocate real and accessible solutions. The crisis of youth suicide in Connecticut is a call to immediate action for all of us. It demands more than just awareness but embedding a support system that is accessible, comprehensive, and preemptive. As a community, we must rally to embed the support our children need to navigate the challenges they face.

At Kids In Crisis, we recognize the importance of proactive and preventative measures in addressing mental health challenges. Our TeenTalk initiative places Masters level counselors in middle and high schools across Fairfield County, which is a step toward making it easier for youth to immediately access the support they need. Moreover, our 24-hour Helpline offers a critical lifeline to struggling teenagers and their parents grappling with mental health challenges, small and large. Whether you’re a child, parent, relative, teacher, therapist, doctor, neighbor, friend, or anyone else concerned about the welfare of a child, any time of the day or night, there is always a live counselor on the end of the phone to help navigate a challenging situation. These trained Crisis Counselors are available to provide immediate help and assess services needed to address and work through any situation.

The challenges posed by mental health struggles are daunting, but they are not insurmountable. These two programs are examples of removing barriers to support that can offer a simple yet profound step toward reaching our vulnerable youth.

This age group, transitioning into adulthood, is experiencing a staggering rate of suicide, second only to accidental fatal overdoses. The implications are clear: we are failing to provide a safety net for those in desperate need. If as a state, we work together to create accessible programs we will ensure that every child in Connecticut has the opportunity to thrive mentally, emotionally, and physically.

Mark Weber