Supporting Youth During Suicide Prevention Month and Beyond

Suicide is a serious public health issue in the U.S., and recognizing the warning signs early can help save lives. During Suicide Prevention Month this September, the Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges is sharing guidance to help families support youth and teens who may be facing mental health challenges.

Start the Conversation

If you’re worried your child may be thinking about suicide, talk with them directly. Many parents fear that bringing up the topic will make things worse or put ideas in their child’s head, but research shows that’s not true. Asking directly shows your child that you’re a safe, supportive person to talk to. This can help them feel understood and less alone.

Show Love & Express Empathy

When children are struggling, they need to feel loved and valued. Let them know through your words and actions how important they are to you. Give them your full attention and listen without judgement. Instead of dismissing or minimizing their feelings, try simply validating responses like, “That sounds really hard,” or “I’ve felt that way too.”

Focus on Positivity & Reduce Conflict

As one parent once said:” The days are long, but the years are short”. Parenting can feel challenging, especially when your child is struggling. Try to focus on positive interaction while maintaining reasonable expectations. Avoid the cycle of: child misbehaves, parent criticizes, child reacts, parent gets more upset. Choose your battles, especially with teens who naturally push boundaries. Spend more energy on building strong, positive connections.

Stay Involved in their World

Monitor your child both when they’re with you and when they’re not. Most of their social lives happen online, which is normal, so take time to understand their digital world. Get to know their friends and their friends’ parents too - this helps you stay connected to what’s important to your child.

Coping Strategies for You and Your Child

• Encourage healthy outlets such as journaling, drawing, listening to music, spending time outside, or playing a sport can help your child express emotions safely.

• Practice calming skills together like mindful breathing, stretching, or grounding exercises.
• Stick to routines so they get enough sleep every night, maintain daily meals, and find ways to move their body, like going on a walk or riding a bike
• Build a support team: Help your child identify trusted people they can turn to when they feel overwhelmed
• Create a "coping toolbox": Fill a box with comforting items like a favorite stuffed animal, pictures, poems, books, etc. You could also make a list of things that help you feel calm and centered
• Model coping yourself: Show your child how you handle stress in healthy ways

Seek Help and Support

If your child seems suicidal, your first step is to talk openly with them. Let them know it’s okay to share these feelings and that you’re there to help. Explain that therapy and, in some cases, medication can make a big difference in how they feel. Ask your pediatrician for trusted referrals and look for a therapist experienced in working with suicidal teens. Evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy are especially effective.

Take Immediate Action if Needed

If you believe your child may be at immediate risk of harming themselves, call 911 or go to the nearest hospital. Always take suicidal thoughts or threats seriously.