Mental Health Awareness
One of our towns has suffered the incalculable loss of a young person through suicide. Another town saw at least one recent suicide attempt by a young person. It's my understanding that bullying may have figured into these incidents. And surely the stresses of the pandemic are taking a toll on our young people's mental health.
The signs of extreme emotional duress are not always evident -- even to professionals. If you are aware that your child is being bullied -- or is bullying others -- please speak up.
And if you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, please know there is help available. And for the friends of those affected: our local youth service bureaus are offering grief counseling to community members.
Here are a few excellent resources -- both statewide and local.