Bullying And Suicide Essay

“Suicide remains the third leading cause of death for high school youth and fourth leading cause of death for middle school youth” (Lieberman 12). I chose to read about bullying and suicide, because growing up, one of my peers committed suicide. He was my brother’s friend, but it was just too close to home and it hit me also. They said he walked home after school and hung himself. His mother later found him. My brother said he was acting normal that day. Everybody at school was in shock. The school took it serious, like they should. They had teachers tell the students that were in his classes, and word just spread from there. Was his suicide from bullying? Maybe. Nobody really understands why he took his life. The article entitled, “Bullying and Youth Suicide: Breaking the Connection” by Richard Lieberman and Katherine C. Cowan, is about how a school can come together and break the connection of bullying and suicide, hence the title.

First, a school must establish a positive and supportive environment. Let the adults’ model appropriate behavior, so students can follow behind. For example, acting immediately when bullying takes place. Next, connections strengthen between the students and adults. Once that occurs, students will be more open to informing the adults about issues. Obviously, the staff should be trained to recognize and respond to students who are having a difficult time. Teachers and other administration can reinforce positive behavior to replace the negative (bullying behavior). The school should also make aware of the mental health services and support they supply. Protect those whom are more vulnerable to bullying (special needs and LGBTQ). Lastly, improve collaboration with school, family, and the community of the children. Bullying has many other ricks factors, besides the school setting, everyone should be on one