A Plain City teen was declared dead shortly after noon Monday, the result of an apparent suicide.
Lance Emberling, an investigator with the Union County Coroner’s Office, said the man was found in the garage by a family member. Medics were called about 12:30 p.m. The man, 19, was declared dead at his home at 12:44 p.m.
“There is no note that we have found,” Emberling said.
He said there is no sign of foul play.
The man’s body was sent to Montgomery County for autopsy.
The man’s death was the second by suicide this year. Union County experienced eight deaths by suicide in 2019.
Dr. Phil Atkins, executive director of Union County Mental Health and Recovery Board has called suicide, “a community health problem.”
Holly Zweizig, Adult Systems of Care Director for Union County Mental Health and Recovery Board, has asked that anyone “concerned for yourself or a loved one, please call the crisis hotline 1-800-731-5577 or text 4HELP to 85511.”
She said Maryhaven also offers walk-in crisis services during business hours. Maryhaven is located at 15 S Plum St, Marysville and can be reached at (937) 644-9192).
Those wanting help may also call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK.
Youth with an immediate need are asked to contact Nationwide Children’s’ Hospital Crisis Hotline at (614) 772-1800.
The Mental Health and Recovery Board also offers a series of resources as well as a free, online mental health assessment.
Suicide experts say friends and family members can also contact resources to help others. Officials said some warning signs may be helpful to determine if a loved one is at risk for suicide, especially if the behavior is new, has increased, or seems related to a painful event, loss or change.
Signs include:
– Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves.
– Looking for a way to kill themselves, like searching online or buying a gun.
– Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live.
– Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain.
– Talking about being a burden to others.
– Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs.
– Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly.
– Sleeping too little or too much.
– Withdrawing or isolating themselves.
– Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge.
– Extreme mood swings.