Bullying can be verbal, like name calling, social, to affect reputations and relationships, or even physical, which hurts someone or their possessions. It can happen anywhere, and to anyone. We can help kids understand bullying by talking to them about it and teaching them how to stand up to it safely.

Erin Reiney is a public health specialist at the Health Resources and Services Administration. “If a youth is being bullied, we really encourage them to talk to an adult they can trust and to not keep their feelings inside. It’s important to tell somebody so that you can feel less alone.” (11 seconds) Children, parents, educators, and communities can learn how to take action against bullying and prevent it from happening by going to stopbullying.gov.

Suicide is the third leading cause of death among 15-24 year olds, following unintended injuries and homicide. While suicides accounts for approximately 1.4 percent of all deaths in the United States annually, it comprises 12 percent of deaths among this age group.

In 2006, 4,189 people between ages 15 and 24 committed suicide. Furthermore, for every youth who commits suicide, it is estimated that 100-200 additional attempts are made. Some of the risk factors for youth attempting suicide include: depression, drug & alcohol abuse, prior attempts, history of trauma or abuse, bullying and exposure to suicide.

TIP: Tell teens that they are not alone in their struggles with emotional and mental health problems. Share success stories that demonstrate how other teens have successfully worked through the same issues. Young people seeking help are urged to visit www.reachout.com where they can hear success stories and strategies from other teens.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

1.800.273.TALK (8255), a resource for individuals who are in crisis and need immediate help and support.

Courtesy of the Quality Enhancement Committee of the National Safe Place Advisory Board