written by Pat Button, First Congregational UCC Albuquerque

In these extraordinary times, the stress level has risen for most Americans. The Covid 19 pandemic has created a sense of isolation and displacement. The economic crisis adds a sense of hopelessness and desperation. But adults aren't the only ones affected; our children are impacted as well. And our children are not only trying to cope with the usual growing pains angst but the new reality of life today.

Even before the pandemic, suicide was the second leading cause of death in American children between the ages of 10 to 19. The suicide rate in youth has increased 58% in the last decade. And the numbers are even worse for minorities: the suicide rate for Black children ages 5 to 11 has almost doubled; suicide attempts for Hispanic girls in grades 9-12 were 40% higher than for non-Hispanics; Asian American children experience approximately the same level of mental health problems as the general population, but are only half as likely to get help; LGBTQ youth experience higher levels of depression than the general population. Most mental health issues begin occurring by the age of 14.

Though these statistics can be terrifying, especially for parents of a younger child, there are many ways that our children can be helped. It begins by educating yourself. According to the website On Our Sleeves, there are several myths about suicidal thoughts and actions:

Asking your child about suicide will put ideas in their head. Fact: When someone is having suicidal thoughts, being asked about it is often a relief to them.
People who talk about suicide won't really do it. They just want attention. Fact: Talking about death or suicide is a warning sign and needs to be taken seriously.
If someone wants to kill him/herself, nothing can be done. Fact: Most people who attempt suicide do not want to die, they just want the pain to stop.
All teens who die by suicide spend a lot of time planning their attempt. Fact: Suicide can be an impulsive act, particularly among young people.

On Our Sleeves is a website devoted to the health and well-being of children. They have numerous articles that provide information on depression and suicide such as ways to improve resiliency and reduce suicide risk, conversations parents should have with their kids, how to talk with your kids about depression and suicide, and how to help a child who is considering suicide. Much of the information is relevant to adults as well as children. We shouldn't forget that there are approximately 17 suicides a day of our veterans, many of them in their early 20s.

I urge everyone with or without children to check out www.OnOurSleeves.org. Included on the website is a list of New Mexico Resources for parents, teachers, children and professionals. Educating yourself may just save a life.