Did you know that you can help save a life?! As a part of National Suicide Prevention Month, every week in September we will be sharing insight into some of the factors that make homeless youth especially at-risk of suicidal ideation and the ways that YOU can help prevent suicide.  

Suicide is the leading cause of death among unaccompanied homeless youth 10 to 24 years old in the United States. [1] Over 40% of homeless teens struggle with depression. [2] The rates of depression, conduct disorder, and PTSD were three times as high among runaway youth as among youth who had not run away. [3] And that was without the effects of COVID-19.

In April, when the effects of COVID-19 really began to hit Washington State, one of our therapists reported that of the 22 youth on her caseload, 20 of them had a history of self-harm or suicide attempt. Yes, you read that right. 90% of the youth receiving therapy had either attempted suicide or self-harm. 

Youth are hurting. The obstacles they are facing feel overwhelming. They need someone to be there for them, listen to them, and help them push on through these hard times. 

You can provide youth with the listening ear and safe guidance that they need. You can help provide them with the therapy they need so that they can take steps towards living healthy, full lives. Your gift of $65 can provide a therapy session for a youth and help prevent suicide!