Teen suicide series elicits heartfelt comments

The following is a sampling of comments sent by e-mail and letter on stories published as part of the series "Teen suicide: Utah's grim reality":

"I've just locked the closet where we keep our guns. It's been casually unlocked for a while. Our sons have been or are depressed. This won't prevent a person determined to commit suicide, but it can deter an impulsive decision. I hope." — Janine, who asked that only her first name be used

"This culture has such high expectations of its youth — I speak of the culture of the LDS Church. I am an active, believing member of the LDS Church, but I cannot deny that the culture of high expectations this belief system generates around itself can be so deadly to its youth. I hope you will address this." — A Provo mother of an 11-year-old boy

"My question is whether your study of this problem in Utah also analyzed its occurrence along religious lines. My theory is that many of these youth suicides take place when kids unfortunately misinterpret their religion's push to live a perfect life to the point where they feel so inadequate that they see no hope to achieve such high standards and so they end their lives. It could happen potentially with any religion, but I am particularly concerned, based on the cases I've seen about it happening in my LDS religion." — Maj. Cornell Evans, United States Air Force, currently deployed, but a resident of Centerville

"I particularly was touched by Jake's comment that 'My illness is no different from someone who has diabetes. My chemical imbalance is just in my head, and theirs is in their pancreas.' Getting past the denial and accepting that my illness did not make me a 'head case' was the most difficult part." — Bill Gaither, southeast Idaho

"J.J's death will not go in vain. Parents like us will take inspiration from J.J. to ensure that their children have a chance in this tough world to survive and lead a life of their own.

"Although I am a Hindu, tonight our family will light a candle in memory of J.J. so that his soul rests in peace. May I let you know that we pray to the Almighty that he may give you strength in overcoming this pain in your life." — Jitendra Singh Tomar, of Bombay, India, who asked a reporter to forward sentiments to the family of J.J. Serassio of Riverton

"It is a taboo subject here and it needs to be brought out into the open if we are to save our children, family and friends. Mental illness is a taboo subject as well, and I'm sick of people sweeping it under the rug. I'm also sick of insurance companies and legislators who have thrown a wrench into trying to get the proper care." — Michael Harrison, Brigham City