Eaton Rapids Community Works is bringing awareness to prevent youth depression and suicide.
While this is a holiday and a lot of people are attending the parade with their families, the medical center said they see it as a great opportunity to get people's attention about the rising rate of suicides in the area.
"We've seen a trend increase over the last few years and that's not uncommon in the tri-county area, but we really want to bring awareness to that, and connect people to resources," Lindsay Peters said.
After surveying the city they realized about 1/3 students reported having symptoms of depression in the last year.
One in four 9th graders considered suicide. One in five actually had a plan.
"We're going to start asking adolescents about their mental health too with some questions. We're already doing that with adults, but we're going to increase our screening with children as well," she added.
Of course this issue runs much deeper than just Eaton Rapids. Children are suffering all over Mid-Michigan.
If you are concerned or not sure of the signs to look for, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255.
