Recognizing the Signs: How Parents and Educators Can Support Teens Experiencing Suicidal Ideation

Being a teenager is an emotional rollercoaster – filled with highs and lows that can feel overwhelming as they navigate the pressures of school, social dynamics, and the challenge of figuring out who they are. For some teens, this sense of overwhelm can become so intense that it leads to feelings of hopelessness, isolation, and, in some cases, suicidal thoughts.  

Parents and educators are often the first to notice when a teen is struggling, and their support can make all the difference. Research shows that the presence and care of just one attentive adult has a profound impact a teen's life, providing the reassurance and stability they need to navigate their big emotions.  

While discussing suicide can be difficult, it is an essential conversation—especially during Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Let’s talk about how we can recognize the signs and step in with the care and resources to support the teens in our lives.  

Understanding Suicidal Ideation in Teens 

What does suicidal ideation mean? These are thoughts about ending one’s life, which can range from passing considerations to more detailed planning. It’s important to know that just because a teen is having these thoughts doesn’t mean they will act on them, but it’s definitely a sign they need help and support. 

Spotting the Warning Signs 

The first step in providing support is knowing what to look out for. Some teens might openly talk about their struggles, but others tend to keep their feelings hidden. Here are a few signs that might indicate a teen is struggling: 

Things They Say 

• Direct Statements: If a teen says things like, “I wish I were dead,” or “I’m going to kill myself,” take it seriously. 

• Indirect Comments: Listen for things like, “I just can’t do this anymore,” or “Everyone would be better off without me.” These can also be signs they’re struggling. 

• Expressions of Hopelessness: Talking about feeling stuck or like things will never get better, is another warning sign to note. 

Changes in Behavior 

• Withdrawing: If a teen who used to be social suddenly pulls away from friends, family, or activities they loved, it’s time to check in. 

• Risky Behavior: Engaging in reckless activities, using substances, or self-harming can be signs of deeper distress. 

• Sleep Changes: Watch for changes in their sleep patterns, like trouble sleeping, sleeping too much, or having frequent nightmares. 

• School Performance: A sudden drop in grades or loss of interest in schoolwork might signal they’re struggling. 

Emotional Signals 

• Constant Sadness or Irritability: It’s normal for teens to be moody, but if they seem stuck in sadness, anger, or irritability for an extended time, it could be a sign of something more. 

• Feelings of Worthlessness: If a teen talks about feeling like they’re a burden or that they don’t matter, it’s important to take note. 

• Heightened Anxiety: Increased anxiety, especially if they’re having panic attacks, could be linked to suicidal thoughts. 

How to Respond When You’re Concerned 

If you’re seeing any of these signs, it’s important to step in as soon as possible with care and support. Here’s some ways to approach the situation: 

1. Start a Gentle Conversation 

When you start a conversation with a teen about their mental health, it’s important to choose a quiet, private moment where they feel safe and you both have enough time to talk without rushing. Begin by gently encouraging them to share what’s on their mind. Ask open-ended questions like, “Can you tell me what’s been on your mind lately?” and listen with empathy. It’s important to let them speak without interrupting or jumping in with solutions. Let them know it’s okay to feel what they’re feeling. You might say something like, “I’m really sorry you’re feeling this way, but I’m here for you, and we’ll figure this out together.” Simply being there and allowing them to express their feelings can make a huge difference. 

2. Offer Reassurance 

Once they’ve opened up, offer reassurance by expressing your concern for their well-being. Let them know that they are not alone and that help is available. It’s essential to avoid downplaying their feelings with comments like, “You shouldn’t feel that way,” or “It’s not that big of a deal.” Instead, focus on validating, understanding and supporting them through their emotions. Encourage them to consider talking to a mental health professional and offer to help them find someone they feel comfortable with, such as a counselor, therapist, or school psychologist. 

3. Create a Safety Plan Together 

Finally, work together to create a safety plan. A safety plan is a personalized, practical plan that helps someone navigate through a mental health crisis by identifying triggers, coping strategies, and support resources while removing access to potential means of self-harm.  

Discuss what situations or thoughts tend to make them feel worse and brainstorm ways to manage or avoid those triggers. Help them come up with a list of coping strategies they can use when they’re feeling down, like calling a friend, engaging in a creative activity, or practicing relaxation exercises. Additionally, it’s important to build a support network so they know who they can reach out to in a crisis, whether it’s a family member, teacher, or a crisis hotline. If possible, remove access to items that could be used to harm themselves, such as medications or sharp objects.  

4.  Resources to Keep on Hand & Share 
   1.  National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988): This is a 24/7 hotline that offers confidential support for anyone in distress. They can also help connect you to local resources. 
   2.  Crisis Text Line: Teens can text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor at any time. 
   3.  The Trevor Project: This resource offers 24/7 crisis intervention and suicide prevention services, especially for LGBTQ+ youth. 
   4.  American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP): AFSP provides a lot of useful information, including local support groups and educational materials for parents and educators. 
   5.  School Counselors and Mental Health Professionals: Encourage teens to use the mental health resources available at school, like counselors, psychologists, and peer support groups. 

Creating a Safe and Supportive Environment 

When it comes to preventing suicide, showing up for a teen can make all the difference. By recognizing the signs and knowing how to respond, you can help create an environment where teens feel safe to open up and get the help they need. During Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, let’s make a commitment to talk openly about mental health, listen without judgment, and offer the support that could save a life.  

To learn more about conversation starters, creating a safety plan, and resources, check out our Suicide Prevention Awareness Month download!