No More Secrets

One of every seven high school students seriously considers suicide. Far too many go beyond contemplation. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide is the second-leading cause of death in teens and young adults, behind only accidents.

Dennis Liegghio almost became a statistic himself. After losing his father to suicide when he was 14, Liegghio struggled with depression and his own thoughts of suicide for years. When he found hope and healing, he started a nonprofit to help others.

Called KnowResolve, the organization focuses on youth suicide prevention. Since 2007, Liegghio has spoken to nearly 12,000 students a year in middle schools, high schools and colleges, mostly in Macomb County and surrounding communities.

“Silence can kill,” he says. “I talk about myths, facts, risk factors, warning signs and available resources. It’s important to talk openly about suicide if you’re concerned about someone. Just being heard can be the first step toward healing.”

In celebration of our 100-year anniversary, First State Bank applauds the organizations that change lives in our community—or, in this case, save lives. We’re honored to give $5,000 to KnowResolve, our third of six centennial donations in 2017. Previous honorees were the Macomb Charitable Foundation and Friends of Foster Kids.

Thank you for making a difference in our community!

Visit KnowResolve.org for information about youth suicide prevention. To speak to someone immediately during a crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255.