hopeless, trapped, or like they are “a burden” to others ■ Looking for ways to kill themselves by gath- ering medications, sharp objects, or firearms or searching online for ways to end their life ■ Expressing unbearable emotional pain ■ Visiting, calling, or reaching out to people to say “goodbye” ■ Giving away prized possessions ■ Suddenly becoming calm or cheerful after a long period of depression The following warning signs indicate that a youth may be struggling with depression, which requires evaluation by a mental health professional: ■ Feeling sad or irritable more often than not ■ Sleeping or eating more or less than usual ■ Showing little to no interest in activities ■ Withdrawing from others
Talking About Suicide With Kids T here may be no conversation a parent fears more than asking, “Are you thinking about hurting yourself?” It’s a question many parents hope they will never have to ask—but mental health experts say asking directly, calmly, and without judgment can save a child’s life. Suicide is the second leading cause of BY AMELIA ROESSLER PHOTO BY MAGNIFIC.COM
■ Participating in reckless behavior ■ Engaging in self-injurious behavior
Some risk factors may also make people more vulnerable to suicide. According to Child Mind Institute, a family history of suicide, bullying, and access to firearms and pills can all increase risk.
cide should be taken seriously and deserves immediate attention. While the prevalence of mental health disorders and rates of suicide increase as children grow older, recent re- search suggests that about five percent of 9- and 10-year-olds have experienced thoughts of suicide. Myth: Talking about suicide puts the idea in a child’s head. Fact: Research consistently shows asking directly does not increase suicidal thoughts. For children who have a hard time admitting they need help, starting the conversation sends the message that a parent cares about them and that struggling and asking for help is okay. SEE THE SIGNS When a child talks or posts about wanting to die or hurt themselves, it’s important that family members and friends respond. Often, children expressing these thoughts are experiencing emotional distress. The following warning signs, provided by the Nationwide Children’s Hospital, indicate that a youth is severely depressed or at risk for suicide and should be responded to:
KNOWING THE AGE DIFFERENCE Ages 3–6
Experts advise to use simple language when talking to young children and avoid euphemisms like “went to sleep.” Make sure to reassure children that they are safe, and encourage questions. Ages 7–10 Kids this age may hear about suicide at school or on the internet. Ask them what they’ve already heard about the topic and go from there. Ages 11–13 (Tweens) At this stage, parents should familiarize themselves with the warning signs and ways to help emotional regulation. Check online influences and peer pressure, but make sure your child knows they are loved and can receive help. Ages 14–18 (Teens) Emotions can be complicated, and under- standing them can be even more difficult. Ex- perts recommend asking directly and calmly if your teen is thinking about suicide. Here, some experts recommend asking directly and calmly. Listen without judgment.
death for 10- to 19-year-olds and it affects all backgrounds. Most children and adoles- cents who attempt suicide show warning signs, making it vital that families recognize these signs and discuss concerns before a life-threatening mental health crisis. UNDERSTANDING SUICIDE According to research by the Nationwide Children’s Hospital, suicide attempts are far more common than deaths by suicide, but any suicidal behavior is serious and can have lasting consequences. Most teens who are suicidal do not actually wish to die, but they are in severe emotional pain and want the pain to stop. They may not know how to move forward or whether there are ways to feel better. Suicide is preventable through early identi- fication, timely treatment and support. Suicide exists on a spectrum. From thoughts about dying (suicidal ideation) to suicide attempts and death by suicide, experts emphasize that any mention of sui-
■ Talking to others or posting on social media about: suicide or wanting to die or feeling
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