Shelby County, Tenn. — Shelby County Schools is talking about alarming statistics involving your children, their mental health and safety.
Shelby County leads Tennessee in children suicide, according to state agencies.
“It’s heartbreaking, it really is, because you are like why is this occurring to them? They are so young,” said Shelby County Schools Psychologist Dr. Audrey Elion.
According to the Tennessee Suicide Prevention Network, six kids in Shelby County between the ages of 10 and 19 committed suicide in 2014.
That’s not the only startling number.
Dr. Elion said last school year, more than 300 kids were treated for signs of suicide by SCS counselors.
The students who reportedly talked about taking their own lives were from all age groups, even little kids in elementary school.
“I’m really concerned there are so many things going on in these homes and our community as a whole that’s causing these to students to feel like there is no way out but to end their lives,” said Dr. Elion.
But despite the concerns, Dr. Elion said the district is taking steps to help prevent these tragedies.
“One of the things we tell them is to ACT. Acknowledge there is a problem. “C” is to show that we care and “T” is to tell an adult.”
This weekend, SCS will host a district wide suicide prevention rally at Hamilton High.
Elion hoped families will learn how to deal with depression and stop tragedies before they happen, but the counselor saisd she also wants those in attendance to realize life is precious and beautiful.
“It’s not just about death, it’s about life. We are celebrating life and we want you to know how important life is,” said Elion.
If you are interested in attending, the rally will take place Saturday at Hamilton High School.
The event is from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and is free to the public.
SCS counselors said if you notice alarming behavior in your child, contact counselors at their school so they can get the help they need.