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Vero Beach, FL – September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, and the climbing suicide rates are becoming alarming among all ages – especially in teens and young adults. It was the second-leading cause of death among people ages 10-34, and females have the highest suicide rate, according to the NIMH (National Institute of Mental Health, 2019).
The MHA in Indian River County’s High School Violence and Suicide Prevention Program helps students cope with hard situations and provides them a safe place they know they can go to and talk about their problems. This year, the MHA reached out to nearly 1,000 students in Indian River County, and the program was well received. Almost 30 students reached out to the MHA after the completion of the High School Violence and Suicide Prevention Program.
Dr. Coppola, CEO of the MHA, is very concerned by the climb in suicide rates. “A loss of a child’s life, no matter the circumstance, is a loss of potential for the world. Our goal is to reach out and make sure children and adolescents receive the care they need before any thoughts of committing suicide through the High School Violence and Suicide Prevention Program. Really, the MHA wants to help people of all age struggling with these thoughts and feelings, giving them a safe space to talk about their life.”
If you are struggling, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-TALK (8225). All calls are confidential, and the line is active 24/7 toll-free.
National Institute of Mental Health. (2019, April). Suicide. Retrieved from