Suicide Prevention Awareness: What Parents and Caregivers Should Know

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness, encouraging conversations about mental health, and reminding individuals and families that support is available.

In recognition of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, our school is sharing information and resources with our families. Our goal is not to create fear or alarm, but to help parents and caregivers feel more prepared to recognize changes in their children, start conversations about emotional well-being, and know where to turn when additional support is needed.

As parents and caregivers, one of the most important things we can do for our children is to notice when something has changed, and be willing to talk about it.

Suicide can be difficult and uncomfortable to discuss, especially when the child is young. However, creating a home where children know they can talk about difficult feelings can help them feel supported and connected.

At school, we want every student to know that asking for help is a strength. We also want families to feel equipped to recognize when a child may need additional support.

What Should Parents Watch For?

Warning signs can look different depending on a child’s age and developmental level. A single sign does not necessarily mean a child is suicidal. However, new, worsening, or multiple changes, especially following a stressful event, loss, conflict, or significant change, deserve attention.

Lower School Students

Younger children may not have the vocabulary to explain complicated emotions. Instead, distress may show up through changes in behavior.

Parents may notice:

• Becoming unusually withdrawn or wanting to spend much more time alone
• Frequent sadness, crying, irritability, or anger
• Losing interest in activities they normally enjoy
• Significant changes in sleep or eating
• Increased physicality which may include hitting, throwing, and biting. 
• Increased worries, fears, or physical complaints such as headaches or stomachaches
• Difficulty concentrating or a noticeable change in school functioning
• Giving away favorite belongings or talking about not being around
• Statements suggesting hopelessness, worthlessness, or that others would be better off without them

Middle School Students

Middle school students may experience significant emotional changes as they navigate friendships, academics, identity, social pressures, and increased independence.

Pay attention to:

• Increased isolation from family or friends
• Sudden changes in friendships or social groups
• A noticeable decline in school performance or attendance
• Loss of interest in activities, sports, hobbies, or other things they previously enjoyed
• Significant changes in sleeping or eating patterns
• Increased irritability, anger, or emotional outbursts
• Expressions of hopelessness or feeling like they do not belong
• Increased risk-taking or significant behavioral changes
• Giving away meaningful belongings
• Talking about death, dying, disappearing, or not wanting to be here

High School Students

Teenagers may become more private as they develop independence, which can make it harder for parents to recognize when something is wrong. Look for changes from your child's typical behavior, rather than expecting one particular appearance or behavior.

Possible warning signs include:

• Pulling away from family and friends
• Significant changes in mood or personality
• Losing interest in activities they previously cared about
• Major changes in sleep, eating, hygiene, or daily routines
• Declining grades, increased absences, or difficulty functioning at school
• Expressions of hopelessness, feeling trapped, or feeling like a burden
• Increased agitation, anger, or emotional distress
• Giving away possessions or saying goodbye in an unusual way
• Talking about death, dying, or not wanting to live
• Searching for ways to end their life or otherwise showing signs that they may be considering suicide

What If My Child Says Something Concerning?

Take them seriously.

You do not need to have the perfect words or know exactly what to do. Start by staying calm, listening, and letting your child know that you are glad they told you.

You can say:

• “I’m really glad you told me.”
• “I’m here with you.”
• “You don't have to handle this by yourself.”
• “I want to make sure you're safe.”
• “Let's figure out what support you need together.”

You can also ask directly about suicide when you are concerned. A calm, direct, and nonjudgmental conversation can open the door for an honest discussion.

Do not promise to keep suicidal thoughts or safety concerns a secret. Your child's safety is more important than keeping their secret.

If you believe your child may be in immediate danger, stay with them and seek emergency help by calling 911 or going to the nearest emergency department.

For immediate emotional support or help determining what to do next, parents and caregivers can call or text 988. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 and provides free, confidential support.

What Can Parents Do Every Day?

Suicide prevention is not only about responding to a crisis. Everyday connection matters.

Make time to talk.
Regular, low-pressure conversations can make it easier for children to come to you when something difficult happens.

Listen more than you lecture.
Children may be more willing to open up when they know they will be heard before receiving advice.

Take changes seriously.
You know your child better than anyone! If something feels noticeably different, it is okay to check in.

Normalize asking for help.
Let your child know that counselors, therapists, doctors, teachers, and other trusted adults are there to help.

Stay connected.
Relationships and a sense of belonging can be important sources of support for young people.

Follow up.
If your child tells you about something difficult, check back in later. One conversation does not have to be the end of the conversation.

Resources for Families

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Call or text 988 for free, confidential, 24/7 crisis support. Parents and caregivers can contact 988 because they are concerned about someone else, too.

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention provides resources for parents, educators, and families focused on suicide prevention, mental health, and starting conversations.

School Counseling Support

Parents do not have to navigate concerns about a child's emotional well-being alone.

If you are noticing changes in your child's behavior, mood, friendships, academic functioning, or overall well-being, please reach out! You do not have to wait until you are certain there is a problem.

Lexi Hosch, LMSW
School Counselor
📧 lexi.hosch@theindependentschool.com
📞 316-686-0152 ext. 415 

If you are unsure whether something is “serious enough” to reach out about, please reach out anyway. A conversation with a trusted adult can be an important first step.

A Final Reminder for Families

Our children do not need us to have all the answers. They need to know that we are willing to listen, stay with them through difficult moments, and help them find support.

Notice the changes.
Start the conversation.
Listen without judgment.
Connect them with help.

This September, during Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, let's continue working together as a school community to make sure our children know they are seen, supported, and never alone in asking for help.