Suicide In Native American Communities

Based on the articles that I have read about the Native American Issues today the one that seems to be the most important issue is “Youth Suicide in Native Communities”. The reason that one can say that this article is the strongest is because this is something that happens everyday. “Suicide is the second most common cause of death for Native young ages 15-24.” (NoiseCat). Being that this is the second most common death this needs to be taken very seriously and be dealt with accordingly. People are taking their lives when they have a purpose to be in this world, but they do not know it because they have feel so deep into a dark hole they can not get out and that is when they have “pulled their last straw” to commit suicide which is not the

way to go. According to the About Teen Suicide Article, people commit suicide everyday due to a psychological disorder, especially depression, bipolar disorder, and alcohol and drug use; feelings of distress, irritability, or agitation; feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness that often accompany depression; a previous suicide attempt; a family history of depression or suicide; emotional, physical, or sexual abuse; lack of a support network, poor relationships with parents or peers, and feelings of social isolation; dealing with bisexuality or homosexuality in an unsupportive family or community or hostile school environment (Lyness). One can not leave someone sitting by themselves; or if they see someone being rude towards someone they can stick up for that person that is being “shut down” by another person. “...two and a half times the national rate for that age group.” (NoiseCat). Two and a half people times the national rate group for that age group have committed suicide. This is beginning to be a huge problem and needs to be dealt with. It can be dealt with by having social workers in schools have a meeting with the whole grade about this issue and letting them know that they are not alone and if they need anything they can come by and talk anytime. Recommend different professional psychologist to the patients that need to talk to someone.