Last year, more than 5,000 youths committed suicide, and half a million more attempted it. Suicide is ranked as the third leading cause of death nationally for this age group, but may actually be second because so many suicides are masked as 'accidents.' Girls attempt it more often, but boys succeed more by using more lethal methods. Causes discussed are environmental, emotional, chemical (biological), and some are related to substance abuse. The cluster suicide is discussed in more depth, and examples are cited in two Texas communities and elsewhere. Prevention steps are examined, including diagnostic and instructional -- incorporating suicide education into the curriculum. Virginia's Fairfax County public school system has developed a suicide prevention program which emphasizes school and community cooperation.