This week, three members of the Students For Happiness staff conducted mini research projects into the topics of suicide and Major Depressive Disorder. They then created infographics to reflect their learning as each member reported on a different theme. The goal of these projects is not only to bring awareness to suicide and report on the numbers but also to release the stigma around topics such as suicide and empower youth to talk about these truths.
Kelly Meng, our founder and Chief Executive Officer, dove into mental health in LGBTQ+ youth. She researched not only the suicide rates for LGBTQ+ youth but also questioned why they are especially vulnerable to suicide and other mental illnesses. Raag Venkat, our Executive Director, took an interest in how the method of suicide created a disparity between the numbers and also researched the percentages of suicide deaths by method between men and women. Finally, Jung Min Yean, our Director of Photography and Web Design, looked at how stress in high school leads to suicide as well as the most common factors of stress for young adults.
Here are their projects:
Kelly Meng: Suicide in LGBTQ+ Youth
"I had previously known about the raised suicide rates in LGBTQ+ youth, but I never realized it was up to 14x more likely. This project has opened my eyes to suicide in marginalized groups and makes me want to delve more into the topic, as well as explore the suicide rates of trans women of color." - Kelly Meng
Raag Venkat: Suicide By Method
Jung Min Yean: Suicide in High School Students
"My project showed me how important it is to take care of students, especially in rigorous school environments. There are so many high school students with hidden struggles and we should implement systems to provide helpful resources to students in need." - Jung Min Yean
We can all help prevent suicide. If you're thinking about suicide, are worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, please call 1-800-273-8255. This National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides 24/7, free, and confidential support for people in distress. They can also point you to other prevention or crisis resources.
Lastly, our team has compiled a series of resources that we recommend taking a look at to view more suicide research and prevention. There are numerous agencies working hard to understand and prevent suicide:
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention
American Association of Suicidology
National Institute of Mental Health: Suicide Prevention
Columbus Recovery Center
Drug Rehab by Advanced Recovery Systems
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