After Netflix released its popular "Thirteen Reasons Why" original series about a girl who killed herself, the topic of suicide has become viral. However, suicide has unfortunately already gone viral among teenagers in the United States. According to The Jason Foundation, • Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death for teens. • More teens die from suicide than from cancer, heart disease, AIDS, birth defects, stroke, pneumonia, influenza, and chronic lung disease, COMBINED. • Each day in the United States, over 5,240 teenagers attempt suicide. • Four out of Five teens who attempt suicide have given clear warning signs. If you work with youth, it's not IF you will have a conversation with a teenager about suicide, but WHEN. Are you prepared? Do you know what to say? Do you know who to contact or what to do? This guide equips you with 13 steps as suggested by counselors, therapists, and the National Suicide Hotline for how to engage teenagers in crisis. NOTE: This book is NOT intended for those struggling with suicidal thoughts. This guide intended to be a tool to help those who may find themselves in a conversation with a suicidal teenager.
Matt started his career 3 days after he graduated from high school as an on-air morning show personality at the #1 radio station in Albuquerque, NM. He began pursuing a college degree in journalism and mass communications while competing as a full-time student-athlete, and then launched his own entertainment company that led him to working as an entertainment trainer for Disney Cruise Line and a public speaker for Monster.com. In 2012, Matt became a publisher for a new magazine that went on to become the #1 magazine within its genre in 6 countries. Matt is now a pastor and works with youth and leaders.
Matt's 3 main passions are leadership, ministry and entrepreneurship, and feels blessed to be able to work within all 3 passions on a daily basis. He lives with his wife and 2 kids in Southern California.
To learn more about Matt, visit mattmizell.com.