CONFRONTING SUICIDE

Disheartening rates of teen suicide make this book’s clearly presented information valuable.

Currie-McGhee identifies mental health challenges as a serious issue, particularly among young women, Native populations, veterans, Black teens, and LGBTQ+ youth. She argues that “one of the biggest barriers to addressing youth suicide among all groups is the stigma surrounding mental health”: Sharing stories and resources can save lives. The book explains that mental health troubles are often hidden, treatment doesn’t always prevent suicide, feelings of guilt can complicate grief, and suicide loss survivors can experience physical distress. Numerous moving anecdotes lie at the heart of the book, describing youths who struggled and many who offer models of recovery and change. The eight brief chapters also cover surviving an attempt, warning signs, research on risk factors, and healing processes. The chapter discussing suicide’s devastating effects on family and friends is especially powerful. The emphasis on helping others closes the book on a much-needed positive note. The author advocates persuasively for seeking help, from both professionals and close personal connections, and offers readers abundant practical advice on doing so; she also includes ideas on how to respond to those in crisis. Text boxes highlight key quotes, and stock photos depict racially diverse people.

A brief, somber, and potentially life-saving resource.