Updated: December 07, 2011

By Christa Fletcher

Last fall, over the course of just a few weeks, five teens committed suicide after suffering from harassment and bullying by peers. Families, friends and communities are stricken with grief and shocked by these these horrible tragedies that are becoming more common.

Many people do not realize that suicide is the third leading cause of death among teens and young adults from age 15 to 24. And, according to a 2007 study by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, male adolescents are five times more likely than females (ages 15 to 19) to take their own lives.

In the wake of these deaths, it helps to understand why youth are affected by this rising epidemic. When teens feel intense stress, depression, pressure to succeed, fear, or experience bullying and sexual assault -- suicide may feel like the only answer.

With the support of family, friends and community members, we can help those in need of guidance and protection. Understand the warning signs and find out how you can spot depression and possible warning signs of suicide below. Remember, depression and suicidal feelings are treatable.

If you think someone is suicidal, do not leave him or her alone. Try to get the person to seek immediate help from his or her doctor, or take them to the nearest hospital emergency room, or call 911. Eliminate access to firearms or other potential tools for suicide, including unsupervised access to medications.