Child and Teen Suicide Prevention: What Parents and Caregivers Should Know

When we think about suicide prevention, we often imagine a crisis hotline or emergency intervention. But the truth is, effective suicide prevention starts much earlier—with honest conversations, careful observation, and creating an environment where young people feel seen, safe, and supported.

Suicide is the second leading cause of death for adolescents and young adults in the United States. That statistic is devastating. But it’s not the full story. The other side of the coin is this: suicide is preventable.

Here’s what you should know—and what you can do—to help keep the young people in your life safe.

Suicide Risk in Children and Teens: The Facts

According to the CDC and NIMH, suicide rates among adolescents have increased significantly in the past decade. While multiple factors contribute to this rise—including social media, bullying, academic pressure, and a national youth mental health crisis—what matters most is how we respond.

Young people are especially vulnerable because they often:

• Lack emotional regulation skills

• Feel isolated or misunderstood

• Struggle with identity or peer pressure

• Fear judgment if they open up

• Underestimate the permanence of suicide

What may look like "drama" or "moodiness" could actually be signs of real emotional pain. We can’t afford to ignore it.

Start with Heart: Create a Safe Container

• Be curious, not confrontational. Phrasing like “I’ve noticed you seem quieter lately—are you okay?” opens doors.

• Normalize emotional ups and downs. Let kids know emotions are part of being human.

• Avoid giving lecture-style responses. It can feel invalidating. Instead: “Tell me more about how you’re feeling.”

What to Say (and What Not to Say)

Say this:

• “I’ve noticed you’ve been really down lately. Can we talk about it?”

• “You’re not alone—I’m here for you, no matter what.”

• “I care about you, and I want to be here—even when it’s hard.”

• “You don’t have to face these thoughts alone.”

• “Have you had any thoughts about hurting yourself?”

• “I want to help you feel better. We’ll figure it out together.”

• “If you're thinking of hurting yourself, I want to help you stay safe—can we talk about that?”

Avoid saying:

• “You have nothing to be upset about.”

• “You’ll get over it.”

• “You’re just being dramatic.”

• “Other people have it worse.”

When in doubt, listen more than you speak. Reflect. Validate. Let them feel their feelings—and let them know you’re a safe place to land.

Know the Warning Signs

You don't need to be a therapist to notice when something seems "off." You just need to pay attention.

Here are some common warning signs of suicide risk in children and teens:

• Talking about wanting to die or feeling hopeless

• Withdrawing from friends or activities

• Changes in sleep or appetite

• Increased irritability, aggression, or apathy

• Giving away prized possessions

• Risk-taking or reckless behavior

• Writing or drawing about death

• A sudden lift in mood after a period of deep sadness (which can indicate that a decision to attempt suicide has been made)

If you notice any of these signs, don’t wait. Ask directly. Research shows that asking about suicide does not increase risk—it opens the door to help.

How to Be a Protective Factor

One of the strongest predictors of suicide not happening is the presence of even one supportive adult.

Here’s how to be that person:

• Create space for honest conversations

• Praise effort, not just achievement

• Don’t punish emotional expression

• Model healthy coping skills

• Normalize therapy and mental health care

• Take their feelings seriously—even when it’s hard to understand

• Be available, even when they say they don’t need you

What To Do If You’re Worried

If you suspect a child or teen is thinking about suicide, take immediate steps:

1. Ask directly. “Are you thinking about hurting yourself?”

2. Listen without judgment. Don’t try to fix—just be present.

3. Remove access to dangerous items. That includes firearms, sharp objects, and medications.

4. Seek professional support. Contact a therapist, pediatrician, or crisis service.

5. Stay with them or ensure they are with someone safe. Don’t leave them alone.

You’re Not Alone: Resources That Can Help

If you have reason to believe your child is experiencing suicidal thoughts, do not wait to get help.

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 any time for free, confidential support.

• 2NDFLOOR NJ Youth Helpline: Confidential support for NJ youth and young adults. Call or text 888-222-2228.

• The Trevor Project: Crisis support for LGBTQ+ youth. Text START to 678-678 or call 866-488-7386.

• Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide: sptsusa.org

• Your local school counselor or pediatrician can also be a valuable point of contact.

Final Thoughts

Suicide is hard to talk about—but silence is more dangerous than discomfort. If you're reading this, it's because you care. And that care, that connection, that presence—it matters more than you know.

At TheraCorp, we understand the emotional weight that comes with parenting, teaching, and supporting young people. If you're concerned about your child or want guidance on how to approach these conversations, we're here. Our licensed clinicians offer outpatient therapy and medication management to children, teens, and families across New Jersey, both virtually and in person.

You don’t have to navigate this alone.