Bill would require teacher training in suicide prevention

By ANGIE BOYNTON, Student Correspondent, Granite State News Collaborative

AMHERST – More than 3,000 U.S. high-school-aged kids attempt suicide every day, on average.

In recent decades, youth suicide has grown to become an epidemic, with statistics showing we lose more teenagers and young adults to suicide than cancer, heart disease, AIDS, birth defects, strokes, pneumonia, influenza, and chronic lung disease combined. Suicide affects more than just one victim; it affects friends, family, coworkers, classmates and teachers.

Like most things, it is hard to spot mental illness or suicidal behavior if you have no experience or knowledge of the signs and symptoms. Which is why NH House Bill 652, if it becomes law, will require the New Hampshire State Board of Education to mandate annual suicide prevention training for teachers and administrators in public schools.

Read the whole story in The Laconia Daily Sun and then share your thoughts at Citizens Count