In fact, for Black males ages 10 to 19, suicide rates jumped 60% during that time.
But many view suicide and the stigma surrounding it, as taboo topics.
Not discussing the problem severely impacts the solution.
Verywell / Theresa Chiechi
Anitra Rice
The stigma, I believe, is about shame.
The stigma, I believe, is about shame.
Despite thestigma, there is hope.
For some, reaching out for help can further stigmatize them.
Helping-seeking behavior is sometimes viewed as a weakness or admission of being crazy in Black communities.
Experts say its important to place a high priority on communication, starting with young children.
Education and awareness of signs that someone is considering suicide, and how to help them, are important.
Stigma also lessens as other people are willing to share their journeys.
Sharing Stories and Making a Difference
Anitra Rice has endured heartache twice.
Two of her sons, Josiah and Jaden, both completed suicide.
Each son was 20 years old at the time of his death.
Although they expressed their love for their mother and were leading productive lives, they ultimately completed suicide.
Yet her desire to help them couldnt stop their pain.
I tried as much as I possibly could to provide stability for them.
There was a part of them I just, I couldnt reach.
It wasnt until after their passing that I learned more about the depth of their pain, Rice states.
Despite the heartache and hurt shes experienced, Rice continues to speak out about hersons suicides.
How do we help men … who have a very hard time dealing with their emotional trauma?
This false bravado isnt really strength, its insecurity.
Its this little boy trying so hard to keep up this facade but inside hes dying.
Rice says she hopes that sharing her familys story will help someone else.
But [we should] look at our pain through a lens of compassion, Rice says.
Help the person you love get the help that they need.
American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry.AACAP policy statement on increased suicide among Black youth in the U.S.
Suicide Prevention Resource Center.Suicide deaths in the United States.
Mental Health America.Black and African American communities and mental health.
