Help is available in preventing suicide

Death by suicide is a devastating loss when we think of how that death may have been prevented. When someone chooses to end his or her life, it impacts the community and calls people to action. Attention to mental and emotional health of young people is a foundation for suicide prevention.

It is tempting to look for single solutions to the problem of suicide, but death by suicide is often due to a complex set of factors. We may be aware of some specific triggers or events like bullying, loss, academic failure or relationship problems, but all of these things occur without ending in suicide for most youth. We also need to know about underlying vulnerabilities such as depression, anxiety and trauma.

The goal of suicide prevention is a significant part of the mission of Foundation 2. Our 24-hour telephone and face-to-face counseling and support groups for suicide-loss survivors and those with depression are all provided by staff who are trained in suicide assessment and intervention.

We encourage anyone concerned about youth to learn more about suicide and depression in young people. Talk to a staff person at Foundation 2 or contact your community mental health center. While adults can't take away some of the painful parts of growing up, there are things we can do to help identify and support vulnerable youth and prevent suicide.

Deb Peddycoart

Quality Director

Foundation 2

Cedar Rapids