Reno, NV (October 25, 2019) – Following several recent teen suicides in northern Nevada, organizations including The Children’s Cabinet, Nevada Department of Health and Human Services, Reno Behavioral Healthcare Hospital, Renown Health, and local experts like Dr. Steve Nicholas, are increasing outreach and efforts to provide support and grief resources to families, schools and youth throughout northern Nevada. These organizations are also working closely together to provide critical information on accessible mental health services and raise awareness of the risks and realities of suicide locally and statewide.
“A single event has ripples of impact that spread through our community. We encourage all families in Washoe County to pay attention to how their teens are doing in the coming days and months and encourage communication. It is extremely important to remind adults and families that studies have shown that talking about suicide in a supportive and caring way does not increase the risk of suicide, in fact, conversations about suicide could save a life,” advises Kim Young, The Children’s Cabinet Executive Director. “The Children’s Cabinet is carefully collaborating with schools and local partners to provide information about common reactions following a suicide, how adults can help youth cope, and the risk factors and warning signs for suicide.”
Studies and research by Youth Risk Behavioral Surveillance System show four out of five teens who attempt suicide have given clear warning signs to family and peers. The following warning signs may indicate a young person may be at risk for suicide or self-harm:
In the aftermath of a suicide, local expert Dr. Steve Nicholas shares the following suggestions for families managing difficult emotions and questions, “Now is the time with loved ones, families, and community members to lean toward and enhance what we already have access to. We can put forth more intentionality and connectedness with the people around us. While it is important to recognize the signs of suicidality, perhaps more importantly, we can focus on promoting loving affiliations and opportunities for success. Please increase face time with your loved ones. Please create new positive memories. Please make plans for the short term and long term future. Simply, engage with each other every day.”
Suicide is the first leading cause of death for Washoe County children ages 12-19, and second leading cause of death for ages 20-44.
These key crisis response services and resources are available to help:
For local parents or youth needing emotional support or assistance in dealing with recent events, The Wilbur D. May Youth Center offers walk-in hours with licensed Children’s Cabinet therapists Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., located at 777 Sinclair Street, Reno, NV 89501.
Reno Behavioral Healthcare Hospital also provides free and confidential assessments 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Please call 775-393-2200 for more information.
Addtional Information (National News)
CDC Finds Rising Suicide Rates For Young People – NPR
