On the recordMarch 13, 1997
child and teen suicide is a national tragedy in our country. The national suicide rate among 10 to 14-year-olds has increased by 120 percent since 1980. One in 12 high school students attempted suicide in 1995, and each year more than 270,000 teenagers attempt to end their lives. More than a desire to die, these children say their attempt was a cry for help. This tragedy impacts all Americans. In affluent Palos Verdes a 15-year-old girl took her life by jumping off a cliff because she felt hopeless and anguished. In east Los Angeles a 15-year-old boy, devastated over his parents' separation, hung himself. Child and teen suicide is a painful and critical tragedy which cannot be ignored. Members of Congress and indeed all Americans must work together to save our children. It is literally a matter of life and death.
Source
govinfo.gov
