WHAT TO KNOW:

  • Risk Factors: history of mental illness, family history of mental illness, history of abuse, use of drugs/alcohol, significant loss, previous attempts, exposure to suicidal behavior in others, access to lethal weapons, struggles and fears of acceptance with sexual orientation.

  • Warning Signs - changes in behavior over a period of two weeks: changes in sleep patterns, changes in eating (too much/too little), increased irritability (moodiness or rapid changes in mood), decreased interest in usual activities, isolation, risky behavior.

Should your child exhibit any of the above for two weeks, please seek professional help immediately. 

PROTECTIVE FACTORS can help keep your child safe:

  • Strong coping/problem-solving skills, positive self-image, close family relationships, strong peer support, spiritual faith, involvement in activities, community connectedness, and restricted means (firearms, drugs, etc.).

If a child/student is in distress:

DO:

  • Let them know you have noticed changes in his/her behavior and are concerned. ASK how he/she is feeling.

  • Ask them if they are thinking about suicide, as in "Are you feeling so bad you've thought about suicide?" Don't be afraid to say the 'S' word - it many times gives them the freedom (safe place) to talk about their thoughts.

  • Be supportive, calm, and let them know you care and that there is help.

  • If a student: encourage him/her to see a school counselor.
    Make arrangements for your child to see a mental health professional. (Make sure the professional has training in suicide prevention.)

  • If your student: continue to stay in contact with them, talk to and stay in touch with the school counselor/administrator about your concerns with the student.

DON'T:

  • Argue or be judgmental about the child/student's feelings or choices.

  • Minimize their feelings.

  • Ignore comments about suicide (even in a joking manner)

  • Be sworn to secrecy

  • Try to help on your own

  • Not seek help for yourself and your family members, especially siblings when a child is diagnosed with a mental illness.

Per the "Signs Of Suicide" Program, remember to "ACT" when you find someone struggling:

  • A - acknowledge their feelings - let them know they are not alone

  • C - Care, let them know you care about them and will assist them in finding help

  • T - Tell (if a peer or student - tell a Trusted Adult immediately; a Parent, School Counselor, Teacher, Youth Minister, etc)

For more information on the "Signs of Suicide" program: 
https://www.mindwise.org/what-we-offer/suicide-prevention-programs/

If you are interested in an "SOS" presentation at your school/church/office,
please click "Contact" page above. 

 

 

The information on this website is intended to provide only ‘general’ information and encourage users to seek professional support. Users of this website assume all risks and shall not hold The brAvery Foundation®, its Board members and volunteers responsible for, and release The brAvery Foundation® and its Board members and volunteers from, any and all damages, liabilities, losses, arising from or related to use of the information presented on this website.