Desmond Bell, 18, died by suicide early this morning. It is unclear whether the pandemic has increased the national rate of teen suicides, but experts emphasize that suicides can be prevented, even during times of extraordinary stress.
Desmond was a high school senior with a promising future. A very charismatic guy, he had a 3.2 grade point average and got along really well with everyone he associated with.
If you or someone you know is at risk of suicide, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255, text TALK to 741741 or visit SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for additional resources.