Teen Suicide Warning Signs: A Guide for Parents

As students return to school, changes in schedules, academics, activities, friendships and social pressures can bring additional stress. It’s an important time for parents and caregivers to pay attention to their child’s mental health and know when they may need additional support.

Suicide is a serious public health concern among adolescents and young adults. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide was the second-leading cause of death for young people ages 10-14 and 15-24 in 2023.

Recognizing suicide risk factors and warning signs and knowing how to respond can help parents support a child who may be struggling.

What Can Increase a Teen’s Risk of Suicide?

There is no single cause of suicide.

Dr. Kristin Furan, a psychologist at CRMC, explains that a combination of health, environmental and life circumstances can contribute to suicide risk.

Some stress is a normal part of childhood and adolescence. Concern increases when multiple stressors or health challenges occur together and contribute to feelings of hopelessness, isolation or despair.

Risk factors may include:

• Depression or other mental health conditions
• A previous suicide attempt
• Substance use
• Chronic pain or serious health conditions
• Traumatic experiences
• Bullying
• Relationship problems
• Family conflict or major changes at home
• Financial or legal problems affecting the family
• Impulsive or aggressive behavior
• Social isolation or lack of connection and support

Having one or more risk factors does not mean a child will attempt suicide. However, understanding them can help parents recognize when additional support may be needed.

Warning Signs of Suicide in Teens

Changes in a child’s words, mood or behavior can signal that they are struggling.

“Some warning signs include talking about killing themselves, feeling hopeless, having no reason to live, feeling like a burden to others, or feeling trapped,” Furan said. “They may sleep too much or too little, withdraw from activities they once loved, or increase their alcohol or drug use.”

Other behaviors that may warrant attention include significant mood changes, withdrawing from friends or family, giving away important possessions or saying goodbye in an unusual way.

Take any discussion of suicide or self-harm seriously.

What Should You Do if You Think Your Child Is Suicidal?

It can be difficult to know how to start the conversation, but you don’t need to have all the answers.

Ask directly about suicide. If you are concerned, ask your child if they are thinking about suicide or hurting themselves. Be calm, direct and willing to listen.

Listen without judgment. Avoid dismissing what your child is feeling or immediately trying to solve the problem. Let them know you are there to listen and help.

Take suicidal thoughts or threats seriously. Don’t assume your child is seeking attention or will simply get over it.

Ask whether they have taken steps to hurt themselves. Understanding whether your child has harmed themselves or is in immediate danger can help determine what level of support is needed.

Seek professional help. Contact your child’s primary care provider or a mental health professional experienced in working with children and adolescents.

Stay connected. Spend time together and remain involved with your child’s school, activities and support network.

Pay attention to online activity. Be aware of significant changes in your child’s social media use, interactions or online behavior.

Reduce access to potentially lethal means during periods of increased risk. Secure firearms, medications and other items that could be used for self-harm.

Know where your child is. Increased supervision may be necessary when your child is experiencing a mental health crisis or increased suicide risk.

How to Talk to a Teen Who Is Struggling

Your child may not be ready to talk when you first ask. Keep the door open.

You might say:

“Whenever you want to talk, I’m here to listen and support you. I won’t judge you. I love you, and we’ll get through this together.”

Try to avoid responses such as “Don’t think that way” or “You shouldn’t feel that way.” Even when intended to reassure, these statements can make a child feel as though their emotions are being dismissed.

Instead, acknowledge what they’re experiencing:

“That sounds really painful. I’m here with you, and we’re going to get you help.”

Your child may choose to open up when you least expect it. Continuing to listen, remain available and show support can help reinforce that they don’t have to manage difficult feelings alone.

Mental Health Support for Children and Teens at CRMC

You don’t have to wait for a crisis to ask for help.

The Behavioral Health team at Cuyuna Regional Medical Center provides mental health care for patients across the lifespan.

CRMC psychologists and psychiatrists work closely with primary care providers to help diagnose, treat and manage a range of mental health concerns. If you’re worried about changes in your child’s mood, behavior or emotional well-being, reaching out to a health care provider can be an important first step.

Get Help Now

If your child or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 for 24/7 crisis support.

Crisis Line and Referral Service
Call 218-828-HELP (4357) or 800-462-5525.

Crisis Text Line
Text TALK to 741741.

If you’re concerned about your child’s mental health but they are not in immediate danger, contact their primary care provider or CRMC Behavioral Health for support.