Dear Parents and Caregivers,
September is National Suicide Prevention Month and It never crossed my mind that I would become a strong advocate for suicide prevention and awareness. I don't think it's something anyone wants to be knowledgeable about or promote because it means that either they or someone close to them has been affected by this tragic and heartbreaking issue.
I am sharing this because my family and I have been affected by it.
I have stood by my teenager as they grieved the loss of a friend to suicide, and I have supported them when they intervened to help another friend who was attempting suicide. I have accompanied one of my own children to the hospital due to suicidal thoughts and self-harm.
Trust me when I emphasize that raising awareness about suicide among teenagers is crucial and incredibly important.
Navigating the complexities of adolescence can be challenging, and it becomes even more critical when our children face mental health struggles such as depression and suicidal thoughts.
As we strive to support our children through these difficult times, it is essential to understand the gravity of their feelings and the importance of taking their concerns seriously. Recent data underscores the urgency of this issue.
According to the CDC, around 22% of high school students reported feeling persistently sad or hopeless in 2024. Furthermore, suicide remains a leading cause of death among adolescents, with approximately 17% of high school students having seriously considered suicide and 8% having made an attempt. These statistics highlight a pressing need for effective support and intervention. CDC Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System, 2024
Recognizing the signs of potential suicidal thoughts or depression is crucial for timely help.
Look for persistent sadness, withdrawal from friends and activities, significant behavioral changes, and frequent discussions about death or self-harm. Physical symptoms like sleep disturbances or appetite changes, along with signs of self-harm, should also be taken seriously. Direct statements about wanting to die or engaging in dangerous behavior are immediate red flags. Believing your child when they express feelings of hopelessness or suicidal thoughts is fundamental.
Sometimes it is hard to believe it when our children have these symptoms, especially if they have a good family and school life. It may seem like they are simply seeking attention or are being dramatic.
However, dismissing or minimizing their concerns can lead to further isolation and an increased risk of harm. Instead, validate their feelings, listen actively, and seek professional help. Immediate support from mental health professionals can make a profound difference.
Fortunately, numerous resources are available to guide and support families. Websites like the National Alliance on Mental Illness, Child Mind Institute , and Mental Health America , The Trevor Project, offer valuable information and support. Social media accounts from these organizations provide ongoing updates and community support:
Instagram Handles:
NAMI: @namicommunicate
Child Mind Institute: @childmindinstitute
Mental Health America (MHA): @mentalhealthamerica
The Trevor Project: @trevorproject
Facebook Handles:
NAMI: @nami
Child Mind Institute: @childmindinstitute
Mental Health America (MHA): @mentalhealthamerica
The Trevor Project: @thetrevorproject
Additionally, crisis resources such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988), the Crisis Text Line (741741), and The Trevor Project (1-866-488-7386) are available 24/7 to offer immediate assistance.
Speaking from experience, our role as parents and caregivers in supporting our children cannot be overstated. By taking their feelings seriously and connecting them with the appropriate resources, we can help navigate them through their darkest moments and foster a path toward healing.
Remember, you can be doing all of the right things as a parent and still have a child who struggles. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength and love. You are not alone, and together we can make a difference.
With care and concern,
Jamie
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