Suicide touches everyone—all ages and backgrounds, all racial and ethnic
groups, in all parts of the country. The emotional toll on those left behind
remains long after the event.
Suicide is the third leading cause of death among teenagers (CDC, 2010).
In addition, each year:
• About 4,700 young people ages 14–24 die by suicide (CDC, 2010).
• Approximately 1 out of 6 high school students seriously consider
attempting suicide (CDC, 2012).
• 1 out of 13 high school students attempt suicide one or more
times (CDC, 2012).
However, there is help and hope when individuals, schools, and communities
join forces to address suicide as a preventable public health problem.