TEMPLE TERRACE, Fla. – Gun violence has become the leading cause of death among teenagers in America ages 12 to 19, according to founder of TeenTyme, Stacey Spencer.
Vehicle crashes and suicide are ranked second and third.
According to Spencer, family and friends all struggle with their emotions when a child or teenager dies a senseless death.
Locally, in the wake and death of 14-year-old Nilexia B. Alexander of Temple Terrace, the community is trying to make sense of this heinous crime that took her life. Her shooting death remains unsolved.
The effects of the pandemic have created other major worries among teens and their families in the areas of mental health, including isolation and depression.
All too often, in recent months, around the country, there has been an alarming trend of teen deaths for particular reasons under review by several mental health institutes.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, communication is the prime connection between parents and teens.
Mental health experts say stress, depression, anxiety, and loneliness are at a record high in the after-effects of the pandemic.
Spencer says asking for help is a true sign of strength.
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