One of the two 16-year-old girls who attempted to end their lives by jumping from the sixth floor of an apartment building in the Athens suburb of Ilioupoli is fighting to stay alive, as doctors continue an enormous effort to save her. According to reports, specialists from 20 different medical fields are monitoring her condition.
The teenager suffered severe injuries throughout her body and remains in extremely critical condition. Doctors are working to stabilize her hemodynamically while simultaneously treating her multiple traumatic injuries.
A united effort to protect fragile teenage minds
The girl was initially taken to Asklepieio Hospital in Voula before doctors decided she needed to be transferred to KAT General Hospital, one of Greece’s leading trauma centers.
Among her injuries are severe cranial and brain trauma, damage to her liver and lungs, and a particularly serious pelvic fracture.
Greek police search for answers
At the same time, Greek police are trying to determine what drove the two girls to attempt suicide together. A note discovered at the scene, along with a diary belonging to one of the teenagers, suggests the girls had been struggling with depression.
However, investigators are also examining whether other factors may have pushed the teenagers toward the desperate act. Their mobile phones and recent conversations are now being reviewed as part of the investigation.
Psychologist and criminologist, Dr. Vana Papakitsou, speaking to Greek media, suggested that cases of suicide pacts are very rare.
The rooftop key and the suicide note
Police investigations are also focusing on how the two girls gained access to the rooftop. Witnesses said the teenagers asked the building manager for the keys to the roof of the apartment building where one of them lived.
Investigators believe the girls deliberately isolated themselves to avoid intervention from residents before carrying out the act. According to police estimates, they locked the rooftop door behind them, put on headphones and then jumped.
Inside the backpack of the girl who died, authorities found a handwritten note described as heartbreaking. In it, the 16-year-old explained the reasons behind her decision, focusing on depression and overwhelming anxiety about her future under the pressure of Greece’s nationwide university entrance exams, known as the Panhellenic exams.
Psychiatric and psychological support is already being provided to both families by hospital staff. At the same time, Greece’s Ministry of Education has activated a special psychosocial support protocol.
A team of psychologists and social workers is being sent to the girls’ school in Ilioupoli to support classmates and teachers, many of whom remain in shock.
Suicide prevention helpline
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. In Greece, people can contact the 24-hour Suicide Intervention Hotline operated by the NGO Klimaka by calling 1018. The line is anonymous and free of charge.
