KATV Channel 7 - The Spirit of Arkansas: Environments Affect Suicide Attempts

It is a question that worries nearly all parents of teenagers... what would really push a teen to take their own life?  Researchers say it may have something to do with their environment.  A study of more than 32,000 high school students reveals that suicide attempts are more common in politically conservative areas.  They say that kids who grow up in more tolerant environments have a bigger comfort zone and feel more accepted.  Researchers say the more a child feels rejected, the more likely they are to have suicidal thoughts.  Once a child starts to really dislike themselves, experts say they are just steps away from contemplating suicide.  Experts say you have to start talking to your teens if you fear that their thoughts are moving in that direction.  There is a myth that if you talk about suicide, kids will be more likely to consider suicide as an option.  Psychologists say that isn't true.  They say talking about suicide frees kids up to talk more about their emotions.