Hurricane Katrina Could Raise National Suicide Awareness and Save Teenagers" Lives
- BOSTON, MA, September 14, 2005 - (InspiringTeens.com) Suicide ranks third among the leading causes of death for young people. Last week saw the observance of National Suicide Prevention Week coinciding with news stories of Hurricane Katrina reportedly compelling a few adults to commit suicide. According to an expert, during trying times we must redouble our efforts to prevent suicide, which especially affects young people.
"Whenever we have a national disaster, such as the devastation from Katrina or the terrorists attack on 9/11, alcohol and drug consumption increases," said Kathleen Hassan, CEO of InspiringTeens.com and national expert on teen self-esteem. "Individuals are also more likely to become depressed and anxious, and young people are often the most vulnerable to these feelings, which can be overwhelming."
"Teens typically are the last ones to let others know they"re hurting or afraid," Hassan continued. "They hold their emotions in, stuffing them deep and literally pressing feelings down. This is precisely the behavior that can lead to depression, a precursor to suicide."
"Our "bigger, better, faster, more" world can distract and numb our youth, disconnecting them from their feelings," Hassan added.
As reported by "CBS News" and others, the federal government has established a hotline to help those affected by Hurricane Katrina deal with the psychological effects. According to stories, one factor that compelled officials to establish the hotline was the reported suicides of two New Orleans police officers during the storm"s aftermath.
On Sept 6, a United Express flight transporting victims of Hurrican Katrina to Virginia had to be diverted when a passenger attempted suicide. The male, according to The Associated Press" report, cut his wrists.
"Suicide is not even in the top 10 causes of death for adults, and yet a number of highly publicized adult suicides have already followed the hurricane," Hassan said. "We can only imagine how many adolescents and other young people may follow suit by attempting their own suicides. With everything that has happened this week, the dangers of suicide deserve an immediate national discussion."
14.12.2005 - 20:35 Source: 24-7pressrelease.com | Read: 245 X
