Family of Southeast HS student who died from suicide releases statement

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Update:

Monday, May 13, 2019

The family of a Wichita Southeast High School student who died from suicide Friday at the school released a statement Monday, expressing grief and addressing issues concerning mental health.

You can read the statement from the student's family below:

"The sudden and tragic death of our daughter, Vayden (Bucky) Easley, due to suicide last Friday has affected our family greatly. Vayden was full of aspirations, excitement and dreams. She will always be remembered in our hearts and with unforgettable memories. Like many people, Vayden struggled with mental health issues. The family made sure to get Vayden to professional support, and she had been seen by a psychiatrist. She was professionally diagnosed with major depressive disorder, borderline personality disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and was prescribed medication. Vayden, and the family, began seeking help through licensed therapists as well. Vayden, and her family, worked hard to treat her mental health issues. The family accepted Vayden for all she was, and would give anything to have her back. We want to use this time to honor Vayden, and to remind others who may be considering suicide, that you are not alone. You are important, and you are loved. Many resources are available. Please reach out to someone, talk to them, and ask for help. We ask for privacy during this time as we struggle with immense grief. We respectfully decline any interviews, and have no further comments, at this time."

There are several groups in Wichita aiming to help families in situations like this. They say they cope by learning how to share and accept their new story.

Good Grief of Kansas

, an organization aimed at helping loved ones cope with loss, has a specific group geared toward survivors of suicide. This group meets every Monday.

Jim Yoder, the group's facilitator for six years, says in his time there, more than 600 people have come through the doors, all with similar stories. Now, he is working to make sure people know there is support out there.

"They understand it on a completely different level because they are living it themselves," he says.

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Update:

4:40 p.m. Friday, May 10, 2019

The Wichita School District confirms the heavy police and emergency presence at Wichita Southeast High School is in response to a suicide report at the school.

The district says a student took their own life and was found in a bathroom during school today (Friday).

A vigil for the student

has been scheduled for Wednesday, May 15 at College Hill United Methodist Church, 2930 E. 1st St. N., 7-9 p.m.

The Centers for Disease Control says parents should talk with their children often about their mental health and make sure that everyone is aware of community resources and health centers.

If you notice any change in your child, it may be worth seeking extra help, USD 259 says there will be staff in place to talk with faculty and students about what happened to start Monday morning, but there is help you can get right now, and we want to make sure that you are aware.

The COMCARE Crisis Hotline right here in Wichita is available 24/7. They encourage any parents to contact them with any concerns about how your child is acting. For students on campus at Wichita State, there are mental health services available for students and staff.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a 24-hour toll-free line for people in suicidal crises or emotional distress. That number is 1-800-273- 8255.

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Police vehicles and at least one ambulance respond to an emergency situation at Wichita Southeast High School Friday afternoon.

On the scene, Eyewitness News reporter Braxton Jones relays information that this in response to the report of an attempted suicide at the school in the 2600 block of South 127th Street East.

We've reached out to the Wichita school district for further information.