How do a talk to my kids about suicide?

This isn’t a common dinner party conversation topic – but it should be.

Your stories and your voice are more powerful than you realize. It is eye opening how many people in your immediate circle have and are experiencing mental health related issues or have been impacted by suicide.

Suicide is a real risk for our youth, it remains the second leading cause of death for youth age 10-24 in the United States.

Have you had a conversation with your kids about suicide?

  • Yes

  • No

  • Other

Watch this video from the Mayo clinic if you are not convinced. Suicide: What to do when someone is thinking about suicide - Mayo Clinic


SPTS (Society of the prevention of teen suicide) has created an article about having a conversation with your kids about suicide.  They offer 6 steps:

  1. Keep your head out of the sand!

  2. Recognize warning signs. How often have you noticed any of the FACTS? See Image below.

  3. Ask questions and listen to the answers.

  4. Create an action plan.

  5. Make your home safe.

  6. Realize you’re not alone!

Read more here Parent Awareness Series: Having a conversation about suicide with your children – SPTS (sptsusa.org)

Would you know how to have a conversation?

  • Yes

  • No

  • Other


Where these tips helpful?

  • Yes

  • No

  • Unknown