CHANDLER, AZ (3TV/CBS 5) — Teenagers and oldsters got here collectively on Friday evening to host a candlelight vigil at Chandler Metropolis Corridor after two teenagers died by suicide final weekend. The vigil was held to recollect the scholars and convey consideration to the rising variety of teen suicides in Arizona. There have been six suicides amongst teenagers at Valley excessive faculties prior to now month.
Chander Metropolis Councilman OD Harris organized the vigil and posted about it on his Fb web page earlier this week, encouraging the neighborhood to attend the occasion. Harris stated the occasion was essential to deliver everybody collectively to speak a few tough matter and name for larger help for psychological well being. “That is the primary time that town has taken upon themselves to handle such a essential dialog and convey consciousness to psychological well being,” he defined.
Zariah Liufau is a scholar at Chandler Excessive Faculty who says she felt the necessity to step out of her consolation zone and discuss psychological well being. “It’s not a straightforward matter to deal with. Nevertheless it opens lots of eyes to say, don’t simply attain out to individuals to verify they’re OK proper now, however at all times test on them. All the time be certain that they’re good,” she stated.
Liufau says she was classmates with one of many college students who died and was among the many many to come back out to honor her reminiscence. “She undoubtedly was the brightest individual within the room, and I by no means actually anticipated it. I hope she’s resting now, and the love that everybody has for her at Chandler and the love I’ve in my coronary heart is huge for her,” she stated.
If you happen to or somebody you realize wants assist, the hotline is 24/7 at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or go to the web site at suicidepreventionlifeline.org.
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