Each year, more than 33,000 people die by suicide in the United States. It's the 11th leading cause of death.

According to the Horry County Coroner's Office, here are the number of deaths attributed to suicide each year:

• 2003 - 41
• 2004 - 36
• 2005 - 24
• 2006 - 36
• 2007 - 43
• 2008 - 39
• 2009 - 32 *through November 1, 2009

David Shultz is a representative of the Jason Foundation, a national organization to prevent youth suicide. He points out that suicide most often is tied to mental health issues.

"In 90% of suicide cases, the victim has a diagnosable mental health condition or substance abuse problem or maybe both," said Shultz.

As many of 60% of them suffer from depression.

'A lot of times that's a struggle, because people don't want to admit they have a mental health issue," Shultz added.

But there is help and there is hope if people reach out said Jennie Cassidy, the director of counseling services at Coastal Carolina University.

"Depression is a very treatable illness, as are a lot of the other things that might lead people to feel suicidal. There's medication, there's counseling, exercise is one of the best ways people can deal with mental health problems," said Cassidy.

Between 80% and 90% of people with depression respond positively to treatment, and almost all gain some relief from their symptoms. But first, depression has to be recognized.

Fewer than 25% of individuals with depression receive adequate treatment.

While suicide is the 11th leading cause of death overall, the numbers are even greater for young people.

It's the third leading cause of death among 10 to 24 year olds, averaging out to about 100 a week.

Through his work with the Jason Foundation, David Shultz speaks to groups about the signs someone might be thinking of ending their life.

Shultz said, "This is one area where you don't keep secrets. Sometimes friendship and loyalty is a very strong bond. We always encourage adolescents not to keep this a secret."

At Coastal Carolina University, counselors are available 24/7 for students in crisis.

Among college students, suicide is the second leading cause of death.

"We try to do a lot of preventative work with suicide issues because it's a very common thing among college students that they're going to consider it," said Cassidy.

So at CCU, all new faculty, resident assistants and directors, as well as freshman peer leaders are trained what to look for and how to respond.

There's also an committee made up of faculty and staff who meet to identify and help at risk students and give them a safety net.

"If we can reach all the other people who are in leadership roles or they're in mentoring roles out there, it's more likely that somebody's going to catch it, and somebody's going to intervene and help the person," Cassidy added.

The Jason Foundation offers group training sessions on suicide. To schedule one, call the local number 843-234-6139 or toll free 877-778-2275.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, please call 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433) or 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

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