Both the superintendent's office and the school confirmed the Wednesday night death.
While it is generally against Action News policy to report on suicides, we felt this was important since it comes so soon after the high-profile suicides of two teen girls from Interboro.
Vanessa Dorwart and Gina Gentile had a suicide pact, and died after standing in front of an Amtrak Acela train near the Norwood train station in late February.
Vanessa and Gina had been despondent after the death of Gina's boyfriend, Bill, who was killed by a car as he rode his bicycle to her home last month.
Teen suicide is a problem an estimated 1 million teens attempt suicide every year.
Psychologist Dr. Michael DeStafano of the Belmont Center for Comprehensive Treatment says a contagent factor has been documented in some suicide cases however:
"When suicides do happen it doesn't necessarily mean that more will happen."
Still he says for all parents of teenagers its vital to talk to your teen.
"Even when they say 'I don't care about anything' the unspoken hope for many of them is that somebody else does and would be there for them."
Warning signs you're child may be struggling include changes in eating or sleeping habits, neglect of personal appearance, complaints of stomachaches, headache or fatigue and increased irritability.
The warning signs are not always easy to spot especially with teenagers. Dr. DeStafano says if you suspect your teenager has a problem ask them if they don't feel comfortable talking to you ask if they would like to speak with someone else.
In light of the recent suicides, here are resources to help those thinking about taking their own lives:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:
Phone: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
CLICK HERE for the website
CLICK HERE for warning signs of suicide
Additional Resources:
American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry - Facts for Families
Helpguide.org - Understanding Teen Depression and Suicide Signs
Medicinenet.com - Teen Suicide Warning Signs
