National Suicide Prevention Month: Fostering Student Mental Health and Exploring Homeschool as a Safe Haven
September marks National Suicide Prevention Month, a crucial time to raise awareness about the pervasive issue of suicide, particularly among students. Suicide is the third leading cause of death for adolescents aged 15 to 19, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to prevent suicidality in schools. This article will explore the state of student mental health, outline effective suicide prevention strategies, and discuss homeschooling as a safe alternative to traditional schooling. Understanding Suicidality in Schools The pressures of academic performance, social dynamics, and personal struggles can create a challenging environment for students. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated these pressures, leading to increased reports of anxiety,...
Fostering Economic Development in Rural Communities
A 2016 study on rural poverty in America found that rural poverty rates exceeded urban poverty rates every year since 1959. Data from 2019 puts the rural poverty rate — across all races and ethnicities — at 15.4%, while urban poverty rates remained lower at 11.9%. Over more than 50 years, the disparity between rural and urban areas in terms of development and opportunities has remained stubbornly pronounced. Addressing this gap is crucial for the sustainable growth of the country as a whole, making economic development in rural communities a matter of national importance. The Importance of Economic Development in Rural Communities Economic development is particularly...