A report from Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt has unveiled disturbing trends in terms of youth suicide rates in Kansas.
According to the report, the suicide rate amongst children 1 to 17-years-old rose nearly 10 percent from the previous four year average of 22 percent between 2014 and 2017 to 31 percent in 2018. This equivalates to roughly 5 youth suicides per 100,000 people.
In the report, Schmidt states, “The sad news that our youth suicide rate continues to increase is another indication that Kansans must remain steadfast and resolute in our efforts to reduce the factors that lead a young person to end their life.”
Beacon For Hope Suicide Prevention Executive Director Melissa Owen says that task often proves difficult as factors are constantly evolving in modern society. Owen adds the topic of suicide, especially involving youth, often causes individuals to become “standoffish” to a certain degree as they are uncertain how to properly broach the subject.
Additionally, she says many people often have trouble distinguishing the difference between signs of depression and children who may simply be “going through a phase.”
Difficult as they may be, Owen says those discussions still need to take place.
In 2018, Schmidt in partnership with the Tower Mental Health Foundation formed the Youth Suicide Prevention Task Force. The task force’s main objective is to study and observe current efforts underway to help reduce and prevent youth suicide in the state of Kansas.
Owen says we have to remember there is no universal solution to suicide. That being said, there are several steps that can be taken to help individuals through strong bouts of depression.
If you are or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide or depression contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling 1-800-273-8255 or visit ag.ks.gov/victim-services.
