The Teton Valley, Idaho, community has been deeply shaken by two teen suicides that happened less than 30 days apart. Sophia Vickrey, 16-years-old, took her own life on April 16, and on May 6 – just three weeks later – 15-year-old Brandon Coburn committed suicide.
“Both teens were students at Teton High School, though it appears the two deaths were not directly related, said Teton County, Idaho coroner Tim Melcher… The two suicides have raised questions about culture and mental health care in the changing Teton Valley, particularly around Driggs, a tight-knit community where many people are only separated by a degree or two.” [Source: Plant JH (Jackson Hole) Weekly]
One mental health specialist hypothesized that “old-fashioned” small-town attitudes about being strong and independent may make young people feel they can’t admit to their struggles with anxiety, self-esteem or depression.
Labels: suicide
Posted By: Stefanie Hamilton