It can be scary to have a friend or child who is suffering from suicidal thoughts, but there are steps you can take right now to help you and your loved one. You never have to be alone in this situation; we are here to help.
For Teens
If you are noticing signs of suicidal thoughts in friends, here is what you should do:
- Take your friend’s suicidal thoughts and actions seriously.
- Talk to an adult you trust. Don’t be alone in helping your friend.
- Stay in contact with your friend by being with them or staying on the phone with them until they are with a trusted adult.
- Convince your friend to call the Suicide & Crisis Helpline and talk to someone: Suicide Crisis Line Number: 214-828-1000
For Parents
If your child is showing warning signs of a suicidal teenager or is explicitly making comments about suicide:
- Support your child by listening to what they have to say without criticizing or passing judgement.
- Stay connected with your child; know where they are at all times and show them extra care and attention.
- Get your child immediate help from a mental health facility or medical professional. If you call our suicide hotline, we can provide you with local resources.
- Become informed. Search the internet for advice, suicide in teens statistics, and local resources like support groups. Your local library will also have resources on how to help teens with suicidal thoughts.
- Convince your child to call the Suicide Crisis Helpline immediately. Tell them you can stay with them if they prefer, or give them privacy, but stay close by.
Never leave someone alone if they are threatening suicide or showing signs of a suicidal teenager. Call 911 or take the person to an emergency room or walk-in clinic at a hospital.