AT THIS POINT in the history of the United States, at the end of the twentieth century and moving headlong— with computer and electronics technology, medical advancements, and scientific discoveries—into the new millenium, Americans think of themselves as an educated and compassionate society, where citizens can find answers to their questions and help in meeting their individual needs. Why, then, do thousands of American teens take their lives each year? Why do thousands more attempt suicide, feeling there is no help or hope for solving their problems"

Some of the answers to these questions lie in the fact that suicide is still stigmatized in our society. Many people who have lost loved ones to suicide feel shame and a need for secrecy instead of sharing their pain and the lessons of their losses with others. Some people believe the answers also lie in a need...