Did you know that suicide is the second-leading cause of death–after accidents–for young people between the ages of ten and twenty-four? Girls are twice as likely to attempt suicide as boys, yet boys are four times more likely to die from suicide than are girls. Family history, substance abuse, physical and/or psychological violence, bullying, LGBTQ issues, and strong emotions–especially when lived without a network of loving support–place some teens at a much higher risk of suicide.

Adults over the age of sixty-five make up 18 percent of US suicide deaths every year. In addition, about one of five Americans who die by suicide is a veteran. That’s about twenty-two vets every day. (I just wrapped up the #22 pushup challenge this weekend to help raise awareness of vet suicide.) TFCB’s Understanding Suicide: A National Epidemic by Connie Goldsmith (new for Fall 2016) looks at risk factors, resources and intervention, coping, and the newest scientific research. She includes case studies from real survivors and from people such as YA novelists e.E Charlton-Trujillo and Chris Crutcher who write about and work with at-risk teens.

This is a must-have book for any school or public library.

THERE IS HELP OUT THERE. If you or someone you know is at risk, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at (800) 273-8255. Trained counselors are available 24/7 to help.

Or, go to this National Suicide Prevention Lifeline link for the 24/7 online chat option.

You are not alone!