WHAT TO KNOW:

  • Risk Factors: history of mental illness, anxiety, family history of mental illness, history of abuse, use of drugs/alcohol, conduct disorder, stressful life events, significant loss, traumatic brain injury, previous attempts, exposure to suicidal behavior in others, access to lethal weapons, struggles and fears of acceptance with sexual orientation, prolonged stress (bullying).

  • Warning Signs - changes in behavior or presence of entirely new behaviors - especially if related to painful event, loss, or change, unbearable pain, sleep pattern changes, fatigue, feeling hopeless, burden to others, feeling trapped, eating changes (too much/too little), increased irritability/aggression (moodiness or rapid changes in mood), decreased interest in usual activities, isolation, risky behavior. Talking about killing themselves, giving away prized possessions, calling people to say goodbye, isolating themselves. withdrawing from activities, humiliation/shame. Relief/sudden improvement.

PROTECTIVE FACTORS can help keep your child safe:

  • Access to mental health care, strong coping/problem-solving skills, positive self-image, close connected family relationships, strong peer support, spiritual faith, involvement in activities, community connectedness, and restricted means (firearms, drugs, etc.).

If a child/student is in distress:

DO:

  • Let them know you have noticed changes in his/her behavior and are concerned. ASK how he/she is feeling.

  • Ask them if they are thinking about suicide, as in "Are you feeling so bad you've thought about suicide?" Don't be afraid to say the 'S' word - it many times gives them the freedom (safe place) to talk about their thoughts.

  • Be supportive, calm, and let them know you care and that there is help.

  • If a student: encourage him/her to see a school counselor.
    Make arrangements for your child to see a mental health professional. (Make sure the professional has training in youth suicide prevention.)

  • If its your student: continue to stay in contact with them, talk to and stay in touch with the school counselor/administrator about your concerns with the student. Notify parents.

DON'T:

  • Argue or be judgmental about the child/student's feelings or choices.

  • Minimize their feelings.

  • Ignore comments about suicide (even in a joking manner)

  • Be sworn to secrecy

  • Try to help on your own

  • Not seek help for yourself and your family members, especially siblings when a child is diagnosed with a mental illness.

Per the "Signs Of Suicide" Program, remember to "ACT" when you find someone struggling:

  • A - acknowledge their feelings - let them know they are not alone

  • C - Care, let them know you care about them and will assist them in finding help

  • T - Tell (if a peer or student - tell a Trusted Adult immediately; a Parent, School Counselor, Teacher, Youth Minister, etc)

For more information on the "Signs of Suicide" program: 
https://www.mindwise.org/what-we-offer/suicide-prevention-programs/



AMERICAN FOUNDATION for SUICIDE PREVENTION (AFSP)

Talk Away the Darkness
  https://talkawaythedark.afsp.org/

TEENS AND SUICIDE
https://afsp.org/teens-and-suicide-what-parents-should-know/

WHEN SOMEONE IS AT RISK 
https://afsp.org/what-to-do-when-someone-is-at-risk/

SUPPORT FOR YOURSELF OF THOSE WHO MAY BE AT RISK
https://afsp.org/get-help/

 

The information on this website is intended to provide only ‘general’ information and encourage users to seek professional support. Users of this website assume all risks and shall not hold The brAvery Foundation®, its Board members and volunteers responsible for, and release The brAvery Foundation® and its Board members and volunteers from, any and all damages, liabilities, losses, arising from or related to use of the information presented on this website.