Shattering the Stigma: Suicide Prevention and Support for Parents
September is an important time for parents to focus on mental health awareness and suicide prevention. It’s a chance to learn how to spot warning signs and offer the right support to your child if they’re struggling. By opening up conversations, sharing resources, and promoting understanding, you can help reduce the stigma around mental health and create a supportive environment at home.
Understanding Suicide Risk in Youth
Suicide is a complex issue influenced by various factors. As a parent, it’s important to know that no single cause determines why a child might feel this way, but several key issues can heighten their risk:
Mental Health and Substance Use: Conditions like depression, anxiety, and substance abuse are strongly linked to a higher risk of suicide among young people.
Abuse and Violence: Exposure to physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, or witnessing violence, can lead to feelings of hopelessness and despair.
Chronic Illness or Pain: Long-term health issues or chronic pain can make your child feel overwhelmed and like a burden.
Isolation: A lack of social support or feelings of loneliness can make it harder for your child to handle emotional challenges.
Life Stressors: Significant life events or stress, such as problems at school, family issues, or the death of a loved one, can trigger suicidal thoughts.
Societal Pressures: Societal expectations, bullying, or discrimination can add to your child's emotional strain and feelings of hopelessness.
Recognizing Warning Signs
Being aware of these factors can help you identify when your child might be struggling. Look for these warning signs:
Talking About Suicide: Your child may express thoughts about wanting to die or feeling like a burden to others.
Behavioral Changes: Watch for signs like withdrawing from family and friends, giving away personal belongings, or suddenly making arrangements such as writing a will.
Mood Swings: Extreme mood changes, like sudden sadness, hopelessness, or an unusual calmness or relief after a period of intense sadness.
Increased Risk-Taking: Engaging in risky behaviors such as substance abuse, dangerous driving, or unsafe activities.
Changes in Sleep Patterns: Issues like insomnia, sleeping excessively, or sudden changes in sleep habits.
Loss of Interest: Losing interest in activities they once enjoyed or pulling away from social interactions and responsibilities.
Physical Symptoms: Complaints about physical issues like headaches, stomach problems, or chronic pain, which may reflect underlying emotional distress.
Taking Immediate Action
If your child expresses thoughts of wanting to die or makes plans to end their life, it’s crucial to take immediate action. This situation can be extremely frightening and overwhelming. Contact a mental health professional or call a crisis hotline for support:
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org
Santa Clara County Crisis Line: 1-855-278-4204
Text RENEW to 741741 for immediate crisis intervention
The Trevor Project (LGBTQIA+ specific): The Trevor Project
Your role as a parent is vital in providing a safe, supportive environment. By recognizing the signs and understanding the risks, you can offer the support your child needs and help them navigate their challenges. Remember, seeking help and starting a conversation can make a significant difference in your child’s life.
Dr. Lisa Torres, CA LMFT
