MANDAN, ND (KXNET) — Students at Mandan High School spent their lunch break on Wednesday writing messages of hope and remembrance for loved ones lost to suicide.

They tied the notes on strips of paper to a Remembrance Railing outside the school.

The activity was part of Suicide Prevention Week on campus, which aligns with National Suicide Prevention Month.

Counselor Connie Shean said the event helps students process grief and learn about resources like the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Shean said many teens know someone who has struggled or they’ve struggled themselves, and facing the subject directly matters.

“Bringing it out, shedding light on it, and asking them about it really is the most helpful thing you can do,” Shean said.

Suicide is the second leading cause of death for peop

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