In today’s society, we are facing a difficult and heartbreaking subject – the alarming rate of high school students considering suicide. According to the CDC, one in five high school students have thought about attempting suicide in the past year alone. This statistic is even more troubling for black children, with rates being roughly two times higher for children as young as 5 years old.
Susan L Taylor, founder and CEO of the national Carees Mentoring Movement, is on a mission to change these devastating statistics and save lives. She emphasizes the importance of mentoring, listening, and being present for young people. Taylor believes that spending just 30 minutes with a child can make a significant difference in their lives.
The national Carees Mentoring Movement is actively working in communities to provide support and resources for at-risk youth. They are training mentors, psychologists, social workers, and wellness experts to help address the mental health crisis facing our youth.
Taylor urges parents to be present and engaged with their children, putting aside distractions and devices to truly connect with them. She emphasizes the need for resources in communities to support young people and prevent further tragedies.
If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or mental health crises, help is available. You can call or text 988 to reach a trained crisis counselor for free 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can also visit 988lifeline.org for more information and support.
The work being done by the national Carees Mentoring Movement is crucial in addressing this national crisis and saving lives. It is a reminder that we all have a role to play in supporting and uplifting our youth. Let’s come together to end this tragedy and provide hope for a brighter future.