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In January 2022, Cheslie Kryst, former Miss USA 2019, shockingly took her own life. Cheslie was a board member of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America and as someone who was open about her depression, we would like to extend our condolences during this challenging time.
During this tragic time, young people may have questions about suicide. While it is common to experience thoughts of suicide, we should never allow them to brush those aside.
The past few years have been challenging for us all. We are all feeling the impact of the changes around us. But, please know that you are not alone and that help is available. You can and will get through this, and this does not have to be the end.
Please know that children are also capable of having suicidal thoughts or of ending their life. Children's mental health is often overlooked, and their negative behaviors or "cries for help" are often seen as attention-seeking. Children and teens often run a higher risk of experiencing suicidal thoughts. It is essential to understand that their brains are still developing, which can cause a lack of necessary tools and functions to think critically and consider the impacts of their decisions.
It is our job as parents, educators, care providers, family, and friends, to notice when something is wrong with our children and support them in finding alternative solutions to their pain. Here are some helpful tools you can use to discuss suicide with your Littles.
Our prayers are with the family and friends of Cheslie Kryst.
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