Stand For The Silent: Addressing the Link Between Bullying and Suicide Risk

For Kirk Smalley, co-founder of the non-profit Stand for the Silent, which aims to eradicate bullying nationwide, the topic of suicide and bullying hits too close to home. Smalley and his late wife, Laura, founded Stand for the Silent in 2010 after their 11-year-old son took his life due to bullying. Driven by their mission to prevent similar tragedies, Smalley travels across the country to speak out against bullying and advocate for change, The Latrobe (PA) Bulletin covered Sept. 11, 2024. 

Recent research highlights the severity of youth suicide, now the second leading cause of death for Americans aged 10 to 24. A January 2024 Pediatrics report underscores that youth involved in bullying—whether as victims or perpetrators—face a significantly higher risk of suicidal thoughts. This link emphasizes the importance of addressing bullying as a crucial part of youth suicide prevention efforts.

“I hope that by me sharing and doing what I do with Stand for the Silent, that it helps others by reducing bullying and helps with suicide prevention,” said Kirk, who, since founding Stand for the Silent, has reached over 6,025 schools and spoken with more than 4.15 million students.

Here’s what parents, educators, and community members should know about bullying, suicide risks, and effective prevention:

Understanding the Risk Factors

Suicide is complex and often results from multiple interrelated factors. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), these factors include experiences of bullying, family history of suicide, previous suicide attempts, mental health issues, social isolation, access to lethal means, and family or peer conflicts. Awareness of these risk factors can help communities take proactive steps to support vulnerable youth.

Recognizing Warning Signs

While not all youth contemplating suicide exhibit warning signs, many do. Signs to watch for include talking about suicide, mood swings, depression, withdrawal from activities, giving away possessions, social isolation, and substance use. Recognizing these signs and responding with empathy is essential to ensure that children get the support they need.

Practical Prevention Strategies

Parents, teachers, and caregivers can play a pivotal role in suicide prevention. The AAP recommends being attentive to mental health concerns, creating safe spaces for youth to express their feelings, listening without judgment, offering empathy, removing access to lethal means, monitoring social media use, and encouraging healthy habits. When bullying occurs, addressing it promptly can help prevent the development of depression or suicidal thoughts.

Getting Help When It’s Needed

When immediate assistance is required, parents and educators can call 988, the national suicide and crisis lifeline, which offers free, confidential support around the clock. Local resources, like school counselors and therapists, can also provide vital support. Stand for the Silent offers in-person awareness and education, helping communities develop tools for bullying and suicide prevention.

“The only way we can help turn this around in America is together,” said Smalley. “We need families, communities, teachers, and schools to all take this seriously and make anti-bullying and suicide prevention a high priority. I’m happy to help them do it!”

Supporting Stand for the Silent

Stand for the Silent offers schools and communities a range of resources, from bullying prevention programs to scholarships and cyberbullying guides for parents. Communities interested in partnering can establish a chapter, access free bullying prevention curricula, host a presentation, or introduce the “How It All Started” video. To learn more, visit Stand for the Silent.

Take A Stand Against Bullying And Fight For Your Legal Rights

If your child has been affected by bullying, it’s crucial to take immediate action. Adam T. Mandell, one of the top anti-school bullying attorneys in the country, can help you ensure that schools are held accountable. Contact LegalAlly.com today to discuss your legal options and take the first step toward justice and healing.