How to provide hope, healing and help for young people in crisis
By Kyra Mancine
Suicide is a topic that makes many uncomfortable. Yet it needs to be addressed.
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, 20% of high school students reported serious thoughts about suicide. As we start a new school year, your child’s safety, health and well-being are more top-of-mind than ever. Suicide prevention month is the perfect opportunity to learn how to recognize and address mental health concerns.
After emerging from years of COVID-19 restrictions, we are just beginning to see how isolation has impacted children, teens and young adults.
While suicide affects individuals of all ages, young people are the most vulnerable.
Did you know that suicide and self-harm incidents have increased by 87% over the past five years? Besides everyday pressures, today’s students face challenges previous generations didn’t have to worry about, including cyberbullying.
Be aware of the warning signs and risk factors
A family history of suicide, trauma, anxiety disorders, lack of social support or the loss of a relationship can make someone contemplate suicide. Talking about wanting to die, looking online for a way to die, withdrawing, and giving away possessions can be red flags that require intervention.
Encourage open and honest communication
Don’t be afraid to start a dialogue with someone who is struggling. It’s important to establish rapport and trust. Be genuine and empathetic with your choice of words and tone of voice. Talking about suicidal thoughts still has a stigma to it. Let your child know it’s OK to have uncomfortable feelings. Reassure them that you are not there to judge, but to help and support.
Know what your district offers
Are you familiar with how your school handles mental health issues? Many districts use web monitoring software and other technologies to flag, review, and de-escalate harmful language and content before it’s too late.
Advocate for mental health support
There is no shame in reaching out for help. Struggling students can benefit from teletherapy, mental health coaching sessions and, if necessary, assistance from trained crisis counselors with expertise in supporting children and teens.
Recently, there has been a national push to reduce or eliminate cost barriers to these services, which should help to increase participation.
By sharing information, we can increase awareness and help support young people in need. From there, compassionate, proactive approaches and tools, including the appropriate interventions, can make a real difference. Staying up-to-date on the latest services and resources can mean the difference between life and death.
If you or someone you know is struggling, there is help
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
24/7 free, confidential support
• National Alliance on Mental Health