Since Seany's passing, we have spent time researching suicide, trying to understand his struggle and his decision. We have been shocked to find that next to accidents, suicide is the #1 cause of death amoungst young people (specifically ages 15-24) in both the U.S. and Canada. Each year nearly 30,000 people in the U.S., and 3,700 people in Canada die by suicide leaving devasted family and friends, known as "survivors".
While most of you already have charities that you are committed to, there are two organizations that you might also consider supporting to help address this largely unknown but huge problem affecting so many people in our communities:
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention - www.afsp.org
The Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention - www.casp-acps.ca
Regardless of whether you choose to support either of these organizations, take a moment to think about someone you know in this age group, that may be in despair. Reach out to them to let them know how loved they are, and that they have many people and tools available to them t help them work through any problem, no matter how overwhelming. A small gesture like this can be the tipping point in that person's life. You can make a big difference with small actions!