STORY AT-A-GLANCE
- In Ohio, suicide is the leading cause of death for children aged 10 to 14, according to a report from the Ohio Department of Health
- Suicide is the second leading cause of death among 15- to 34-year-olds in Ohio
- In Ohio, from 2007 to 2018 the number of suicides among youth ages 10 to 24 increased by 56%, while the suicide rate increased by 64%
- Some have suggested that Congress should create a “psychologist general,” an office that would be dedicated to Americans’ mental health, similar to that of the surgeon general for physical health needs
- If you notice someone showing signs of contemplating suicide, it’s recommended that you ask them directly if they’re having suicidal thoughts; doing so won’t increase the risk of suicide but may help to open up a conversation that can help