TRAGIC: 11-Year-Old Girl’s Suicide Highlights Bullying Problem in Illinois Schools

In a heartbreaking tragedy, an 11-year-old girl from Rockford, Illinois, took her own life after enduring relentless bullying at school, and tragic situations like this have to stop.

I didn't know this little girl. I don't know her family, but I have an 11-year-old daughter and this post made me sick to my stomach and brought me to to tears.

This sweet girl was too young to understand the finality of her choice, so I cannot comprehend the amount of pain, loneliness, and fear she must have been feeling when she made it.

My heart absolutely breaks for Jalyah's family, but on the other hand I am INFURIATED that this is what life is like for so many children these days. I am terrified about what the future holds for my two daughters, and I never want them to feel so unhappy and alone.

Parents, what are we teaching our children that they think it is ok to bully another child to the point that they want to end their life?

Is this problem so massive because society is full of unhappy people hiding behind keyboards and spewing hate?

Is this despicable behavior rubbing off on children and turning them into hateful little heathens because we are too preoccupied with our own misery to teach them how to be kind and decent?

I'm not going to sit here and pretend I know what happens behind closed doors in other people's lives or why they treat others the way they do, but I will say this; we MUST do better, and this is NOT okay!

Parents, bullying is a learned behavior, and stopping it begins with us.

Bullying and Mental Health Resources in Rockford, Illinois

If you, your, child, or someone you know is struggling with bullying, mental health, grief, or suicidal thoughts, please know the Rockford area has several great resources available to help. You don't need to suffer alone.