By Brett Marciel
Suicide is currently the second leading cause of death for middle school, high school, and college aged youth in our nation. We average losing more than 127 young people (10 – 24) to suicide each week. The good news is that suicide is preventable.
While it has been noted that student-athletes are less prone to suicidal thoughts and actions, they are by no means immune to the trials and tribulations that all young people experience. The social stigma associated with mental illness, suicide, and seeking help is lessening, but there is still work to be done. There is a culture prevalent across the country where seeking help for emotional or mental distress is looked down upon.
It is imperative that we recognize when a young person may be struggling with thoughts of suicide. Encouraging help seeking behavior and knowing where to go for professional assistance is of utmost importance. Suicide rates are the highest that they have been in more than 40 years, but we can make a difference. The relationships young people have with their peers, parents, and coaches are vital to their mental well-being. Having a strong support structure can deter suicide attempts in youth.
Many times, young people today play sports year-round with little to no off-season. This instills a feeling of being part of something bigger than themselves. The effects of belonging to a team can strengthen the support system around a young person. Having this feeling of inclusiveness has been seen as a protective factor when it comes to suicidal thoughts. Alternatively, the loss of this perceived identity can have a major, negative impact on a person. We need to be acutely aware of when a young person may lose this feeling of belonging.
This loss may be a result of injury, not being able to play, poor performance, a loss of playing time or starting position, or a myriad of other factors. These situations can lead a young person to lose their identity as part of a team and could be detrimental to their mental stability. Coaches should be aware of what resources are available for student-athletes. Guidance and counseling centers/services are great places to start if you suspect a young person may be experiencing a difficult time.
The Jason Foundation, Inc. (JFI) is a nationally recognized leader in youth suicide prevention and awareness. Our mission is to provide programs and resources for students, educators, and parents to help recognize and assist young people who may be struggling with thoughts of suicide. The Jason Foundation has never charged any school, district, teacher, or coach for the use of any of our programs or materials.
Through The Jason Foundation, you have accessible a wealth of information that can be utilized in your professional and personal life. Visit our website, www.jasonfoundation.com, to learn more about the programs available and how you can become involved in suicide prevention. Please join us in combatting the “Silent Epidemic” of youth suicide.