Roundtable on Youth Suicide

Suicide is a major problem in Alaska. From 2004-2008, it was the leading cause of death for the age group of 10-19 years old. In any culture, suicide is a hard topic to talk about. That is especially true in the Alaska Native cultures. This topic, among many others, is taboo to talk about to one another. However, if this issue is not discussed and children are not taught that this is not a natural thing, this problem will only become worse.

On Monday, October 4^th, the city of Bethel held the first ever “Roundtable on Youth Suicide”. Many representatives from across Alaska and the country came to discuss their feelings and actions towards this topic and allowed the community to share personal testimonies and suggestions on how to handle this problem. The roundtable board consisted of Senator Lisa Murkowski, Myron Naneng the President of the Association of Village Council Presidents, Gene Peltola the President of the Yukon Kuskokwim Health Corporation, Governor Sean Parnell, and nine others who represented local, state, and nationwide organizations.

The most rewarding part about this event was hearing the testimonies from members of the community. Various youth and adult community members spoke of personal matters of suicide relating to self attempts and/or family and friends that were successful. They shared how they’re lives have been affected by this and pleaded for change. Suggestions that were brought to the forefront included: never do things on an impulse, using the Yup’ik way of life as a model for teaching youth, having family meetings, speaking up if you see someone getting bullied, and the most important, which was shared by a young adult, was showing someone you love them.

I have worked with and been around many of these surrounding communities, and have heard stories that no one should ever hear, let alone live through. The tragedies that lie deep within the hearts of these people are devastating. Although this is a difficult subject to speak of, it is important to do so in order to promote change. Addressing the matter and talking about it is one of many steps that are needed to cure the problem.