Teen-Age Suicides: Causes, Prevention

I felt the article on teen-age suicide was very much needed. I agree with most of it. However, I feel there are points that need to be stressed that weren’t. I am writing as one who clearly remembers being a teen-ager.

I don’t feel the problem with teen-agers is drugs, sex, alcohol or moves a family makes to another town. Children can handle anything that comes their way if they are loved and accepted by their parents and if their parents are able to teach them self-love and self-esteem.

Also, parents need to learn that as children go through their teens, they will want to try new things and new ways of being as they are in search of themselves. Criticizing them (as most parents do) will only stifle their growth. We all go through phases, even as adults. It’s important that we allow our children the same privilege.

I feel that society in general can help by being less violent and more loving. We can show more respect for each other, even if we’re of different races or sexes. And we can show more respect for life in our attitudes toward others’ lives--including those of animals and plants.

K. MICHELE DEUTSCH

San Diego