It is with a heavy heart that we report another student’s suicide. This time, the tragedy occurred at Fort Lauderdale High School in South Florida.
According to officials, the 17-year-old male senior leapt from the third story of the building, and fire rescue officials are calling it a suicide. Prior to taking his own life, the student left messages indicating his intentions.
Some of the students of the High School witnessed a thud, but still investigation is in process. For now, the school administration placed lockdown on school, and parents were notified to pick up their children. School counsellors are currently speaking with the students and their families.
“We need to take the time to see all of our students and to see them from their perspective of how heavy the world must seem,” said Melissa Sherman, whose daughter attends class at the school. “I think, because as adults sometimes we tend to brush off things that our kids experience, but we never really know what’s going on. Listen to your kids.”
The school was placed on lockdown to avoid other students from witnessing the scenario.
“I think we need to do something more about mental health,” said Paola McDonald. “Get together with your kids. Talk. Be there for them when they need to, even when they don’t want to talk.”
The school community is understandably grieving following this devastating loss. Our thoughts are with the victim’s friends and family during this difficult time.
If you or someone you know is struggling with serious mental stress, please know that there is help available. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides free and confidential support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can call them at 1-800-273-8255 or visit their website at suicidepreventionlifeline.org.
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