MONTAGUE, Mich. - Two students at Montague High School took their own lives in separate incidents last month and health officials are working to reverse the trend.
The suicide rate in Muskegon County is more than twice the statewide average. Between 2014 and 2015, suicides in Muskegon County jumped more than 105%. A report shows that one of every three students in the county have considered suicide.
The Muskegon County Suicide Prevention Coalition is working on a new plan to combat the problem. “There is certain training, certain things that we’ll do as a community here that if you are identified as depressed or suicidal then certain things will kick in to help keep you alive, that are not kicking in currently.” Said Michael Pyne, the chairman of the Muskegon county suicide prevention coalition.
They say that there are certain things that can be done as a community if you are identified as being depressed or suicidal, that just aren't happening right now. Experts say that about 90% of those who commit suicide have some kind of mental health concern.
If you or anyone you know may be considering suicide, reach out for professional help, whether it be a doctor or calling a suicide hotline.
The Muskegon help line is 231-722-HELP. For the national help line, call 1-800-273-8522.
