WASHINGTON – The CDC is investigating a spike in youth suicide in Fairfax
County.
This week, there will be focus groups for parents to share their perspective
on what’s going on with their kids, and to identify risk factors for
attempted suicide.
“Typically it’s a change in behavior. So, a student who is now sleeping more
or
doesn’t seem to be able to sleep. The student who is very engaged in an
athletic activity and now is no longer wanting to engage. Most parents have a
sense that something is wrong and typically will say, ‘He just didn’t seem to
be himself,’ or ‘I’ve been worried about him lately,'” says Mary Ann
Panarelli, Director of Fairfax County Public Schools Intervention and
Prevention Services.
The focus groups will ask parents about school climate, peer pressure, and
bullying. “Certainly we know that the primary risk factor is mental health
issues,” Panarelli says. “They’re trying to see if there are things unique to
the Northern
Virginia area that might be putting kids at higher risk.”
Over the past decade, there has been an increase in teen suicide in Fairfax
County Public Schools. Two students at Langley High
School committed suicide
earlier this year and six W.T. Woodson High School
students ended their lives within the past three years
After an investigation, the CDC will make a final report and recommend
prevention strategies.
Focus groups have been set for the following dates, times, and locations:
- Nov 17, 7 p.m, Virginia Hills Center, 6520 Diane Lane, Alexandria,
Virginia - Nov 18, 7 p.m, Leis Center, 7423 Camp Alger Ave., Falls Church, Virginia
- Nov 19, 7 p.m, Mountain View Alternative High School, 5775 Spindle Court,
Centreville, Virgnia
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