Instead, say: “I’m glad you told me,”“I’m here with you,” and “We’re going to figure this out together.” Another great step is to create a safety plan. Creating a safety plan can also be important after a child expresses suicidal thoughts. Take practical safety measures like removing access to guns, conducting room checks, and leaving the door, but also make sure to look for ways to lean into the things that they love or even avoid things that aren’t helpful. If your child has never been to therapy, but is open to the idea, this could be a great time to start! While conversations at home can help you understand where your child is emotionally, a licensed therapist who specializes in child mental health can provide additional support for your child and family. Not quite ready for this step? That’s okay! Speaking to a pediatrician or a primary care provider can be another great step for nav- igating where your child is at and accessing helpful resources in your area. PREVENTION & RESOURCES By educating ourselves, we can learn what puts kids at greater risk for suicide and what protects them. Awareness of risk factors and
Take every mention seriously and seek pro- fessional help immediately if needed.
warning signs, making ourselves available and reminding children that help is always available are key to supporting their mental health. Parents should seek immediate help if a child: ■ Talks about wanting to die or kill themselves ■ Has a plan or access to lethal means ■ Gives away possessions or says goodbye ■ Expresses hopelessness or feeling like a burden ■ Shows sudden, dramatic behavioral changes after a period of depression If someone is in immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department. Anyone experiencing emotional distress or concerned about someone else can also con- tact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 for immediate support. Parents don’t need to have perfect an- swers. They simply need to be willing to ask hard questions, listen without judgment, and remind their children that they never have to face life’s hardest moments alone. Conversa- tions about suicide can feel overwhelming— but they can also be the first step towards hope and healing.
College Age/Young Adults Your child may have moved out, making it harder to recognize they’re struggling. Show interest and be supportive. Be direct, and ask them if they are considering suicide or have a plan. Don’t be judgmental, give advice, or try to talk them out of suicide (and don’t swear to secrecy). WHAT TO DO NOW? Approaching your child directly about their mental health is an important first step. Here are some questions to ask your child: How have you been feeling lately? I’ve noticed you’ve been down; can you tell me more? It seems like you’ve been sad more often. Did something happen at school? Sometimes when people feel this way, they think about suicide—have you ever had those thoughts? What not to say: “You have nothing to be sad about,”“Other kids have it worse,” “You’re just looking for attention,” and “Don’t be dramatic.”
Fall Fest Presented by: Camp Marydale | St. Francisville, La.
Saturday, October 31, 2026
Featuring a Pumpkin Patch on Saturday, October 17, 24, and 31.
Pumpkin Patch
Hayrides Games and Activities
Trunk or Treating
Local Vendors, Food, and More!
Camp Marydale
Youth $20-25 | Adults $15
gsle.info/fallfest
BRPARENTS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2026
37
Made with FlippingBook flipbook maker