I have nine children, two of whom are teenagers. The thought of finding one of them like you friend's dad found him shakes me to the very core. Thank you for posting this.

My two cents: For the most part, the west has forsaken the wisdom of ages. In school we are taught that we are just another animal, an accident of random chance, and there is no greater purpose to existence. We are told we must be responsible, work hard, be honest, be nice, etc., but to what end? If we have nothing to look forward to other than suffering and death, is it truly the reasonable position to suffer this life through to the bitter end? If experiencing maximum pleasure and minimal pain is the best explanation for the meaning of life, why should anyone not commit suicide?

I offer these thoughts as something to think about before being tempted to point the finger of blame in any one direction. I truly believe our society as a whole needs to take a step back and reevaluate our philosophical ideals, or Lack thereof more precisely.