Among U.S. college students, the two leading causes of death are auto accidents and suicide, in that order.

Dr. Vincent D’ Andre, a Stanford University psychiatrist who has organized suicide hotlines, peer counselors and dormitory advisers to prevent suicides, says 15 out of every 100,000 students do away with themselves each year.

About one in 10 suicide attempts succeeds. Though 90 percent of all attempts are made by women aged 20 to 30, those who succeed are usually men.

Be alert to those around you. Life can be hard and we don’t know what others are going through.

I hope you will join me for our Second Annual Ash Wednesday Service, Feb. 25 at 7 p.m. to begin the Lenten season preparing us for Easter and Holy Week. The wonderful folks at the Del Webb  community will be hosting us. You can find out more details by e-mailing bmatheny@bellsouth.net or calling 706-347-0480.

If you are feeling suicidial yourself, please reach out for help. We are here for you. Wishing you much love and much light.