CHARLOTTE, N.C. — It’s been over a year since Nathan Kocmond took his own life at just 16-years-old.
It was a high profile case that drew the attention of our entire community. The family was even offering a $5,000 reward -- then $10,000 -- in hopes of bringing their son home safely.
Sadly, about a week into our coverage, we learned Nathan’s body had been found in a secluded forest. He had taken his own life. His parents were very outspoken during the search, but we hadn’t heard anything from them since their son’s body was found by a hiker.
Unfortunately too many people – including our teens - suffer in silence when it comes to depression. I wondered how Nathan’s parents were doing a year later. I decided to reach out to Nathan’s father, Dr. Jon Kocmond. A few days later, I heard back.
They were ready to share their story to break the stigma of mental illness and depression in hopes of saving another life. We not only talk about the signs they saw leading up to Nathan’s death, but we also discuss his concussion.
The family is still at a loss, but they are hoping their story will help someone out there.
According to NBC, suicide rates among children 10 to 19 have been increasing since 2007, and experts say this is exactly why parents need to be talking about it.
According to the World Health Organization, too many people are taking their own lives. On average, almost 3,000 people commit suicide every day. That’s every 30 seconds someone takes their own life.
And for every person who commits suicide, 20 or more may attempt suicide. For family and friends affected by suicide, the emotional impact may last for many years.
Tonight at 11, Dr. Jon and Sarah Kocmond open up about the most difficult thing they’ve ever had to face. The death of their child. They were so brave opening up, and their strength and faith are truly inspiring.
If you or someone you know is suffering, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.