Bullying 
Depression Suicide
"Jared High did not exhibit the symptoms of clinical depression
prior to the May 6, 1998 incident with A. S. at McLoughlin Middle School
and its subsequent disciplinary aftermath. In the weeks and months
following, however, Jared High developed the symptoms of a major
depressive
episode. By the nature of the diagnosis, a major depressive episode
develops over time. By September, 1998, Jared High had a diagnosable
condition of clinical depression. In my opinion, the May 6, 1998
physical altercation at the hands of A. S. and the subsequent discipline
of Jared High by McLoughlin Middle School Vice Principal L.A. are significant
causal
factors in the development of that depression, such that it is
unlikely that Jared would have developed that depression and the impulse
to commit suicide
if those events had not occurred.
"It is my professional opinion that Jared High's state of mind at
the time of his suicide was distorted and irrational, that his thinking
at the time was characterized by feelings of hopelessness and 'tunnel
vision' such that he could see no alternatives. Such feelings and
thoughts are a direct result of processes over which Jared High had no
volitional control, based in both the biological and psychological roots
of his depression. Because of these factors, Jared High was unable
to resist the impulse to end his suffering through suicide.
Deposition of Dr. Alan L. Berman, a Clinical
Psychologist practicing in Washington D.C.
(Read more of Dr. Berman's deposition at
www.jaredstory.com/BermanPhd.html)
Psychologists believe that some people have a genetic tendency towards
depression, some develop depression
because of environmental triggers, and some people can have both genetic
and environmental triggers,
(See "Teen Depression and it's Causes"). Jared developed
depression from the trigger of bullying
at school as well as an assault by a bully
in school. The new term being used to describe this type of teen
Suicide is, "bullycide," a suicide caused from the effects of bullying.
Below are a few articles about depression that might help the reader
to understand depression better. Also, please support the advertisers
on this page and check out the services they might offer. With knowledge
comes solutions to, sometimes, lifelong problems.
One more thing - If you believe you have depression, don't let this
brain-fog continue to control you or your destiny. Ask for help and
seek competent medical solutions and opinions. You are not alone
in your suffering as there are many people who suffer with depression.
There are also many people who want to help. Please give those who
love you a chance to support you in your journey to become depression-free.
Brenda (Jared's mom)
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