By Nancy Stoops

Almost every month somebody tells me a story about another teen committing suicide.  I can’t tell you how much this concerns me.  Yes, I had a brother that successfully committed suicide, but more than that it speak volumes regarding the severe depression that many youth seem to be suffering from.

Our world is different now. Technology offers wonderful things, yet it has hindered the way we communicate – especially our youth.  So many of them are relying on the friends they are meeting online to help them solve their very serious problems.  As good intentioned as these people are, they don’t have the skills or the knowledge to help somebody that is truly suicidal.

If you are reading this right now and you know of a truly suicidal person, go to an adult you trust who can assist in getting your friend some help.

The truth is most people don’t kill themselves at the lowest part of their depression.  They just don’t have the energy to formulate a plan.  The time they actually commit suicide is when they begin to feel just a little bit better.

I have done many suicide assessments.  I look to see if the person has a definite way they will do it and the means to follow through with the plan.  This is a person that isn’t playing around or threatening suicide for attention.  This person has put much thought into dying and how they will do it.  They make sure they have the pills, the gun, the rope, or whatever means they are planning to use.

I know it’s hard to see the truth, especially with our kids.  Please don’t believe the depression will go away on its own.  Please don’t ignore the warning signs.  Instead, insist that this person get some professional help before it is too late!

This article was written by Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T.  Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.  She has a private practice in Diamond Bar and is currently accepting new clients; she is also a motivational speaker who can inspire your employees or group members.  Nancy runs free family support groups, including a group on loss for seniors, and groups on how to manage anger. For more information about any of these services feel free to contact her at (909) 229-0727, or via email at nancyjstoops@verizon.net.  Nancy’s books, “Midnight the Therapy Dog,” and “Live, Heal and Grow,” are available at Amazon.com.