In Franklin County this year, there have been the same number of teen suicides as all of last year. Seven in just the first four months of the year. It's a number that concerns those who work to prevent suicide.
Nationwide Children’s Hospital has been watching the statistics, their suicide prevention coordinator said attempts are also on the rise.
“It's been challenging for the hospital to really see so many youth in distress,” said John Ackerman.
Ackerman said there are a number of factors that can contribute to suicide. While there has been no connection proven, the timing of the rise in suicides coincides with the release of the Netflix series “13 Reasons Why."
Ackerman thinks the show is a missed opportunity. He firmly believes suicide needs to be talked about and the stigma dropped, but he questions how the show was carried out.
“They show the very graphic and detailed end of Hannah’s life which goes against all media and best practices,” said Ackerman. “We've had a number of reports of people immediately attempting after watching the show.”
Ackerman thinks the show lacks hope and help, the message he would like to see put out. He wants parents to know it is okay to ask kids how they are doing and okay if they are not alright. If that is the case, get them help.
To learn the suicide warning signs, how to respond and more about Nationwide Children’s Center for Suicide Prevention and Research, click here.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-8255. The Crisis Text Line is 741-741. Both have crisis counselors standing by 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.