Another Fall River student attempts suicide over bullying

Bullying is nothing new in Fall River or across the country, the ramifications, however, continue to be devastating.

Recently, a Fall River middle school student attempted suicide by swallowing a bunch of pills after months of bullying was too much for her to handle, according to her mother. Late last month, a family member found her unresponsive. She reportedly isn’t the first Fall River student this year to attempt suicide after being bullied. In 2019, a Fall River student was reportedly, tragically, successful at ending his life.

Family members often point the finger at the school for not doing enough to protect the child and wanting them to do more. This case is no exception.

While the severity of bullying in Fall River is very concerning, it is far from a Fall River problem. The statistics are sobering.

According to federal statistics on bullying, approximately 20% of students ages 12-18 experienced bullying nationwide. While experts state it is not accurate and potentially dangerous to present bullying as the “cause” or “reason” for a suicide, or to suggest that suicide is a natural response to bullying, a student trying to kill themself after being bullied can’t simply be ignored.

According to Stopbullying.gov, parents, school staff, and other caring adults have a role to play in preventing bullying. They can:

-Help kids understand bullying. Talk about what bullying is and how to stand up to it safely. Tell kids bullying is unacceptable. Make sure kids know how to get help.

-Keep the lines of communication open. Check in with kids often. Listen to them. Know their friends, ask about school, and understand their concerns.

-Encourage kids to do what they love. Special activities, interests, and hobbies can boost confidence, help kids make friends, and protect them from bullying behavior.

-Model how to treat others with kindness and respect.

As far as Fall River’s efforts are concerned, the Fall River School System implemented a city-wide, anti-bullying initiative in 2019. Technology is also being used to combat the issue as the new Durfee reportedly has over 500 cameras with face-recognition technology.

The school’s principal in addition to Fall River Superintendent Maria Pontes were contacted by Fall River Reporter for comment, and we have yet to receive a response.