Letter: We have to start treating suicidal people with more respect

According to the Utah Department of Health, only 24% of teens who die by suicide had disclosed their intent to anyone. | Adobe Stock

According to the Utah Department of Health, only 24% of teens who die by suicide had disclosed their intent to anyone, and more than half of those who died by suicide had experienced a recent crisis or event that contributed to their death.

My heart goes out to the young woman in Orem who had the courage to tell someone close to her, or so she thought, that she was contemplating suicide. Her college roommates failed her by putting their own feelings ahead of hers, in a potentially deadly situation. Ventana Student Housing failed her again, exacerbating the situation by posting her eviction notice on her door, instead of reaching out to her in person.

This must not happen again. There are many resources for our youth to get help, including the National Suicide Hotline, 1-800-273-8255. It is equally important for friends, roommates, family members and school supports to know how to help, not harm. Mental Health First Aid, QPR and other classes, support groups and mentors are all free through National Alliance on Mental Illness Utah.

Sue Weaver

Taylorsville

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