Suicide Prevention in Teens: What parents need to know
Parenting teenagers is a journey filled with challenges, especially when it comes to emotional well-being and mental health. Teen suicide prevention is an incredibly delicate but important subject, and something that should be given the same care and attention as any other safety or health issue.
This week, we were joined by Dick Moore, an experienced educator and advocate for youth mental health, to talk about the signs to look out for and what parents and schools can do if they believe a teenager needs help.
The Importance of Emotional Honesty
Dick talked about the significance of parents and educators being emotionally honest as a foundation for helping teenagers navigate their own complex feelings. By modeling regulated emotional expression, we teach our young people that it's normal to experience, and openly display, different emotions, and that dealing with life's challenges is a part of growing up.
“We can’t expect our children to be emotionally honest unless we, ourselves as parents and teachers, are emotionally honest.”
The Impact of Social Media
Our conversation also touched on the influence of social media in relation to teens' mental health. While recognising its benefits, Dick highlighted the importance of educating both parents and children about the potential risks associated with social media use, such as oversharing and the pressure of likes and comments. He encouraged the use of parental controls and open family discussions about online behavior.
Recognising Signs of Distress
Dick provided guidance on identifying signs that a teen might be considering suicide, such as changes in behaviour, expressing feelings of hopelessness or a sudden lift in mood that may signal a decision to end their suffering. He stressed the importance of taking any mention of suicidal thoughts seriously and seeking professional help when necessary.
Key Questions to Assess Risk
Dick went on to say, that If you are worried about your teen and think they could be at risk, you can ask them three important questions:
Are you thinking about suicide?
Have you got a plan?
What's keeping you safe?
These direct and unambiguous questions can help gauge the immediate risk and determine the next steps in providing support.
Responding to Suicidal Thoughts
Dick talked about how best to respond if your child expresses suicidal thoughts - take them seriously, stay calm, reassure them of your love for them, and avoid making promises of confidentiality that you can't keep. Keep communication as open and honest as possible, and seek professional help immediately if you believe the situation is a crisis.
“If your child doesn’t want to talk to you, don’t give up. Persevere. Be gentle. Tell them you love them. And don’t give up.”
A Message of Hope and Resilience
Dick's message was one of hope and resilience. He encouraged parents to maintain open lines of communication, to be emotionally honest, and to ensure that their love is unconditional. He reminded us that adolescence is a time of significant change and that with support and understanding, young people can find their path to happiness.
“There is every reason to believe they will move forward from this as their emotions become more regulated.”
Further Guidance
If you’re seeking further guidance or support, Dick signposted resources like the Charlie Waller Trust and Papyrus’ Hopeline247 who offer assistance for those affected by these issues.
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