It’s the Holiday season. And not everyone is happy about it. Our teens struggle with this ever changing world and the pressures of life.  And the internet is not always helpful when you add in teen hormones.  Time and time again our children get bullied online. As a parent it is hard to keep up sometimes. They know of more apps than we even thought of. They can Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, and all those that ‘disappear’ after the message is sent.  So much online activity  without us even knowing. And let’s face it, some kids are ruthless with their words.

Recently in our small town of 5000 we have had 2 students die. They have had grief counselors at the High School to talk about suicide. It breaks my heart that this happens. To be 19 years old and just give up hope and check out. Help us see Lord those kids that need help. Open our eyes and let us bring light into the darkness. we need to start talking about it. Too many kids are dying. Join me in praying for our teens today, wherever they are.

Here are some astounding facts about teens and suicide. According to the Jason Foundation: 

• Suicide is the SECOND leading cause of death for ages 10-24. (2013 CDC WISQARS)
• Suicide is the SECOND leading cause of death for college-age youth and ages 12-18. (2013 CDC WISQARS)
• More teenagers and young adults die from suicide than from cancer, heart disease, AIDS, birth defects, stroke, pneumonia, influenza, and chronic lung disease, COMBINED
• Each day in our nation there are an average of over 5,400 attempts by young people grades 7-12.
• Four out of Five teens who attempt suicide have given clear warning signs

Here are the Warning Signs from the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

• Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves.
• Looking for a way to kill themselves, such as searching online or buying a gun
• Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live.
• Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain.
• Talking about being a burden to others.
• Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs.
• Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly.
• Sleeping too little or too much.
• Withdrawing or isolating themselves.
• Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge.
• Displaying extreme mood swings.

If you or someone you know exhibits any of these signs, seek help as soon as possible by calling the Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).