A Chester County teen is advocating for teen suicide prevention in the Downingtown Area School District and the School District of Philadelphia, reports staff for FOX29 Philadelphia.  

Nived Lakshman, 17, is a rising senior at Downingtown East High School and has always been concerned about teen suicide rates.

“It’s the third leading cause of death for high school students,” Lakshman noted. “For people aged 10 to 34, it’s the second leading cause of death.”  

Lakshman brought his concerns and ideas to his school district and upon hearing their comments and critiques, he decided to testify to the School District of Philadelphia, alleging that there’s more work to be done in encouraging teen-to-teen suicide prevention. While many teachers are positive influences on teen’s lives, it can still be uncomfortable for teens to speak about their mental health with their teachers.  

“If we teach students the signs and make suicide prevention more engaging, then they’re more likely to listen,” he said. “If we take a stand and create a pragmatic approach, we can become better as a society.” 

Lakshman hopes to travel to other states to spread the message of teen suicide prevention.  

Watch the full interview about Nived Lakshman’s efforts at FOX29 Philadelphia. 

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