Talking About Suicide With Kids BY AMELIA ROESSLER
24 SEPTEMBER 2026 | NOLAFAMILY.COM UNDERSTANDING SUICIDE According 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. 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 death for 10- to 19-year-olds and it affects people of all backgrounds—no one is immune. But most children and adolescents who attempt suicide show warning signs, and it is vital that families are aware of these signs and discuss concerns, ideally prior to a life-threatening mental health crisis.
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, having a conversation sends the message that a parent cares very much about them, and that struggling and asking for help is okay—asking can be lifesaving. SEE THE SIGNS When a child talks about or posts online or on social media about wanting to die or hurt themselves on purpose, it’s important that family members, caring adults, and friends respond. Often, children expressing themselves through such ideas are typically experiencing emotional distress and may not know the skills or tools to use to help them through these stressful experiences.
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 and are unsure if there are ways to feel better. The good news is that suicides are largely preventable through early identification, timely treatment, and support from families, schools, friends, and communities. Suicide exists on a spectrum. From thoughts about dying (suicidal ideation) to suicide attempts and death by suicide, experts emphasize that any mention of suicide 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 research suggests that about five percent of 9- and 10-year-olds have experienced thoughts of suicide.
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