10-Year-Old Was Using Phone Just Before She Died by Suicide. Now Her Mom Is Urging Parents to Check Their Kids’ Devices

**Nighttime Phone Usage Linked to Tragic Suicides – Mother Issues Warning**

In a heartbreaking turn of events, a mother has come forward to share her daughter’s tragic experience with suicide and its potential link to nighttime phone usage. The incident sheds light on a crucial issue that many parents may overlook – the impact of smartphones on young minds, especially during vulnerable moments like bedtime.

Autumn Bushman, a 10-year-old from Roanoke, Va., passed away on March 21, reportedly after using her phone in her room. Her family has since revealed that she may have been a victim of bullying at Mountain View Elementary School. The community was left reeling with shock and grief over the loss of such a young life.

The Bushman family’s concerns about bullying were brought to the school’s attention, but they felt the response was inadequate. Mark Bushman, Autumn’s father, expressed frustration at the lack of effective action despite their efforts to address the issue. The family’s ordeal highlights the challenges faced by children in today’s digital age, where cyberbullying can follow them beyond school hours.

Following Autumn’s untimely death, the Roanoke County Public Schools expressed their condolences and pledged to investigate the matter. However, the subsequent police inquiry concluded that no criminal activity was involved, leaving the family grappling with unanswered questions and unresolved grief.

Recent research has pointed to a potential correlation between nighttime phone use and increased vulnerability among young people. A study by Virginia Tech highlighted the risks associated with screen time and access to medications, citing late-night hours as a period of heightened emotional fragility for adolescents. The ease of access to both prescription and over-the-counter medications poses a significant concern in preventing suicide attempts.

Summer Bushman, Autumn’s mother, has bravely shared her regrets about allowing her daughter to have a smartphone, particularly at night. She emphasised the need for parents to monitor their children’s digital habits, urging them to be vigilant for signs of distress or bullying. The tragic loss of Autumn serves as a stark reminder of the importance of fostering a safe and supportive environment for young individuals.

Amidst the grief and sorrow, the Bushman family’s story underscores the critical role of parental supervision in navigating the complexities of modern technology. Restricting phone usage in bedrooms, promoting healthy sleep habits, and fostering open communication are essential steps in safeguarding children’s mental well-being.

As the community mourns the loss of Autumn and grapples with the aftermath of this devastating event, there is a pressing need for awareness and proactive measures to address mental health challenges among young people. The Bushman family’s plea for greater vigilance and empathy towards children’s emotional struggles resonates with a wider call for support and understanding in today’s high-pressure society.

The tragic loss of Autumn Bushman has ignited a poignant discussion about the impact of cyberbullying and nighttime phone usage on adolescent mental health. It serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of fostering a nurturing environment for young minds to thrive and seek help when needed. In honour of Autumn’s memory, let us strive to create a safer and more compassionate world for all children.