Talking About Suicide: A Parent’s Guide to Supporting Children and Teens
Talking About Suicide: A Parent’s Guide to Supporting Children and Teens
Suicide is the second-leading cause of death among adolescents. With academic pressure, social media, and access to substances, many parents worry about their child’s mental health.
In honor of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, Dr. Kimberly Bennett, Chief Clinical Officer of Casa Pacifica which includes the Camino a Casa program, shares practical advice for parents navigating this difficult topic. Dr. Bennett is a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience working with youth and families.
Expert insight from Kim Bennett, Ph.D., Chief Clinical Officer, Casa Pacifica
How do you identify someone who may be suicidal?
Dr. Bennett: First, we must recognize the signs which are both behavioral and emotional including expressing hopelessness or suicidal thoughts, withdrawal from friends or activities, and increase in conflict with others, agitation and or difficulty with sleep. It is not uncommon during times of emotional distress for our children to begin to experiment or engage in substance abuse with either drugs, alcohol or both.
Some parents worry that asking about suicide might make things worse. Is that true?
Dr. Bennett: Unfortunately, that’s a common myth. Teens often feel relieved when someone asks directly and compassionately—“Are you thinking about suicide?” Assuring your teen they are not alone can be incredibly powerful as it shows that you see them, you care, and you’re not afraid to talk about the hard stuff.
How should a parent approach that conversation? What’s the right way to start?
Dr. Bennett: Be calm, compassionate, and direct. Pick a quiet moment and say something like, “I’ve noticed you’ve been down lately, and I’m worried. Can we talk about how you’re feeling?” Let them know it’s okay to be honest and that you’re there for them no matter what.
Avoid minimizing their feelings or jumping straight to problem-solving. Just listen. Sometimes the most powerful thing you can say is, “I’m here. You’re not alone.”
What should a parent do if their child says they are having suicidal thoughts?
Dr. Bennett: First, thank them for telling you—it takes a lot of courage. Remain calm, sit with your child and listen to the reasons they are feeling this way. Then, consider the best next steps. This may include consulting with your pediatrician or making an appointment with a mental health professional.
Youth who express significant thoughts of suicide or who are planning a suicide attempt need an immediate evaluation. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Voice, text or online chat options are available.
We’re Here to Help
If your teen is struggling with suicidal ideation, Camino a Casa can help. Our expert clinical team offers intensive residential and partial hospitalization programs for youth ages 12–17 facing depression and other serious mental health challenges.
Contact us at 805-366-4000 or via email at admissions@casapacifica.org to learn more.