News of the suicide of a 14-year-old student at Morgan Hill’s
Britton Middle School has shocked and saddened all of South
Valley.
News of the suicide of a 14-year-old student at Morgan Hill’s Britton Middle School has shocked and saddened all of South Valley.
The loss of a young life stuns parents, who cannot grasp the death of a child; teachers, who put so much time, effort and energy into educating children; and students, who must now deal with a peer’s death much sooner than anyone would like.
We extend our deepest sympathies to the student’s family, friends and educators who are now coping with a senseless and inexplicable loss.
In the aftermath, our community is faced with the sad truth that one suicide can spur others to consider taking such a tragic step.
Teenagers seem to be especially vulnerable to the copycat suicide syndrome.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, high risk factors for suicide include previous suicide attempts, mental illness, family history of suicide, previous sexual abuse, impulsive or aggressive tendencies and substance abuse.
We urge anyone who knows a vulnerable child to be especially alert right now.
Also, friends of those who “jokingly” refer to suicide should speak to an adult about it. It might not be a “just kidding” situation. And that’s not a risk anyone should take right now.
For help:
• Community Solutions: 842-7138
• Suicide and crisis hotline: 683-2482
