Experts agree that the best way to prevent suicide is to talk about it, but people are often afraid to bring it up. Stigma plays a big role in our reluctance, but it’s also scary to acknowledge that someone you love might be feeling suicidal. People are understandably afraid of saying the wrong thing, too.
In recognition of Suicide Prevention Awareness month, this week on childmind.org we share resources for families worried about suicide. Teenagers are notoriously prickly and teenagers struggling with depression are even more so, so we offer advice about how to talk to depressed teens. This includes advice about how to be a good listener, to encourage teens to feel more comfortable opening up.
We also share advice about how to ask about suicide if you are worried and signs parents should look out for. Finally, we round up advice about how to help kids who are struggling with related issues, including self-injury and a form of OCD that includes an obsession with suicide.
Click here for more resources.
Topics covered:
- Signs a Child Might Be Suicidal
- What to Do if You Think Your Teenager Is Depressed
- Help for Cutting and Other Self-Injury
- What to Do if You're Worried About Suicide
- When OCD Triggers Suicidal Thoughts
- Taking a Child to the Emergency Room
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