To the Journal editor:

(According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) suicide is the second leading cause of death in Michigan for ages 15-34 and the third leading cause of death for ages 10-14.

Suicide rates among minors increased 57 percent in Michigan from 2004-2013. Among high school students, 17 percent (approximately 2.5 million ninth through 12th graders) have seriously considered suicide, 13 percent have made a suicide plan, and 8 percent have attempted suicide.

Last year a family friend lost their child, in middle-school, to suicide. This child was the victim of a horrific social medial prank, that ended with them taking their own life.

Senate Bill 464 was introduced on June 15 to the Michigan Senate. This bill would require medically accurate and age appropriate education for students, parents, and staff in our schools related to depression and suicide.

This bill would be a move in the right direction to reduce suicide attempts, completions, and with proper training, school personnel will be better able to identify youth at risk and intervene before it is too late.

At this time, I encourage you to contact Education Committee Chairman Sen. Phil Pavlov and urge him to bring SB 464 to the agenda at their next meeting.

Call 517-373-7708 or mail P.O. Box 30036 Lansing, MI 48909-7536.

Suzanne Tusa

Iron Mountain