The numbers continue to grow. Since 1956, suicide rates for youths between the ages of 15 and 19 has increased by more than 250 percent — and is growing even faster among 10 to 14 year olds.

In response to such statistics, the Provo School District formed the HOPE Task Force, a countywide suicide prevention program with more than 30 sponsors, including churches, state agencies and civic groups.

"Suicide has such a negative connotation that people are afraid that if they talk about it they are going to give their children ideas when the reality is that some are probably thinking about it already," said Greg Hudnall, director of student services for the Provo School District.

"We want kids to know that suicide is not an option."

While prevention is crucial, family and friends also need support.

And while the sting of suicide never really disappears, support from other people with similar stories can shift the focus from grieving to helping others, David Jenkins said. He said it is important to remember that every life has a purpose and that no one ever dies in vain.

"Going there (to the support group) every month probably allows us to give as much as we get. And I think that's very important for the memory of our son and for making what happened to him even more meaningful," David Jenkins said. "If we can help someone else — hopefully to prevent it, but if not, to give comfort— then we're making a difference."

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E-mail: lwarner@desnews.com