Somewhere here in WS there may be a student who seems like they have a good life: friends, faith and a solid family. But hidden inside this person there could be pain and a feeling that overpowers their sense of hope.
Suicide is the second-leading cause of death in people ages 10 through 24, according to FCPS’s Parent Resource Center. For obvious reasons, this is a major issue concerning teenagers in this day and age.
The extent of suicide awareness lessons that we learn in school consists of a video and possibly a counselor lesson for a small handful of years. The part of suicide that is never made aware to us through these various videos and lessons is how a seemingly “normal” kid can very well be on the edge of making the decision to take his or her life.
Recently, a student death at Hayfield Secondary School shocked those close to him because of the lack of “signs” traditionally linked with thoughts of suicide.
Two years ago, Woodson and Langley high schools faced the same situation. These students seemed well-adjusted and happy. Academics, sports and friends gave them a community of support. And, in every case, those who were left behind were suprised—even shocked—at what happened.
The importance of protecting others from reacting to their struggles is paramount. There are signs that should be accounted for by students, peers and adults. In addition, there is an act so simple that some forget about it too often.
The simple act of kindness changes the game in so many ways. It offers a sense of friendship to those in desperate need of it. And studies show that supporting others in this way soon becomes a habit we all can live with.
We are not here just for an education; while in school we can do more than sit in our classrooms and take in information. The ordinary student has a responsibility of expressing an attitude of kindness toward others. Whether it is toward teachers or peers, either way everyone deserves a level of respect and kindness from one another.
The impact a single student can have on another is so powerful that depending on how they act, it can be the difference of life and death.
The decision to act a certain way will always present. As cliche as it may sound—choose kindness.