Pastors and counselors were available Tuesday at North Union schools to help students deal with the death of a classmate.
“It is with great sorrow that I inform you that an 8th grade student at North Union Middle School passed away unexpectedly last evening, March 1, 2021,” North Union School District Superintendent Rich Baird wrote in a Tuesday letter to the community.
Lance Emberling, an investigator with the Union County Coroner’s Office, said the 15-year-old Magnetic Springs boy was found by a family member about 9:45 p.m. at his home, where he was declared dead.
Baird said counseling from local professionals and clergy, will be available to support our students and staff for as long as we need them.”
He said the district has “a strong support team within our schools as well.”
The boy was attending the North Union Digital Academy.
“The North Union community will remain strong in support of these families,” Baird wrote in his statement. “Positive support is important to all families and only accurate information should be shared.”
Baird said the district’s first focus is “on the family and doing everything we can to support them.”
He asked parents or the public with questions to call him at (740) 943-2509.
A fund has been established at Richwood Bank to help the family with expenses. Those wishing to contribute may do so at any Richwood Bank location and donate to the “North Union Family.”
Baird said he appreciates the relationship the district has with Mental Health and Recovery Board of Union County, which has helped with resources as well as connecting officials with counselors for the students.
Emberling said the boy’s death was the second by suicide this year. Union County experienced 7 deaths by suicide in 2020.
Dr. Phil Atkins, executive director of Union County Mental Health and Recovery Board, has called suicide “a community health problem.”
Youth with an immediate mental health needs are asked to contact Nationwide Children’s Hospital Crisis Hotline at (614) 772-1800.
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.
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.