Published
Yes, the environment does come into play with these youth. Here is a list of a few reasons for the high rate of suicide:
1. Forced geographical location
2. Exploitation of food
3. Poor education
4. High unemployment
5. Unhealthy lifestyles
6. Access to lethal methods
7. School peer pressure conflicts with NAI values
An overwhelming majority of Indian youth feel their hopes and dreams are hopelessly thwarted often times due to harsh discipline.
Thunderwolf, MSN, RN
3 Articles; 6,621 Posts
Emmy May has lost five relatives and friends to suicide. (MPR photo/Dan Gunderson)
Experts say teen suicide is an epidemic on Indian reservations across the country. Some of the highest teen suicide rates are on Indian reservations in the Upper Midwest. The U.S. Senate Indian Affairs Committee holds a hearing Wednesday on teen suicide. The story of one Red Lake teen reflects reality for many in Indian Country.
Red Lake, Minn. — "My name is Emmy May and I am 16 years old. I'm writing my story of how I recovered from depression."
Story here: http://news.minnesota.publicradio.org/features/2005/06/10_gundersond_indiansuicide/