Responding to a Suicide Risk Alert for Your Child

This is an incredibly difficult situation, and your immediate actions are crucial. Here's guidance on how to respond:

Immediate Steps to Take

1. Take it seriously - All suicide warnings must be treated as genuine emergencies, regardless of whether you believe it might be for attention.

2. Stay with your child - Do not leave them alone. Remove access to potential means of self-harm, including medications, weapons, or other dangerous items.

3. Connect with professional help immediately:

   • Call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (available 24/7)

   • Text HOME to 741741 to reach the Crisis Text Line

   • Take your child to the nearest emergency room if the situation is urgent

   • Contact your child's therapist if they have one

How to Talk with Your Child

• Remain calm - Despite your own fear and anxiety, try to approach conversations with composure.

• Listen without judgment - Create a safe space for them to express their feelings without fear of criticism or punishment.

• Ask direct questions - It's okay to gently ask: "Are you thinking about hurting yourself?" or "Have you thought about suicide?" Asking about suicide does not increase risk.

• Validate their feelings - Say things like "I hear how much pain you're in" and "I'm here and I care about you" rather than trying to talk them out of their feelings.

Next Steps

• Follow through with recommended treatment - This may include therapy, medication, or hospitalization if necessary.

• Develop a safety plan with mental health professionals that includes:

  • Warning signs to watch for

  • Coping strategies

  • People your child can contact when in crisis

  • Emergency contact information

• Maintain open communication at home about mental health.

Taking Care of Yourself

This situation is traumatic for parents as well. Seek support through:

• Therapists or counselors

• Support groups for parents

• Your own trusted friends and family

Remember that you don't have to handle this alone, and getting your child the help they need is the most important thing you can do right now.