Teen Suicide Prevention: What Every Parent Should Know

Suicide is one of the most heartbreaking topics any parent can imagine. Yet it's a reality we can't ignore: suicide is now the third leading cause of death among children ages 10-14 and the second leading cause for teens and young adults ages 15-24*.

In my work as a therapeutic educational consultant, I meet with boys and girls who express a desire to commit suicide. Some of them have made attempts. Some just have the idea. Regardless of either, if a teenager says they feel suicidal, believe them until proven otherwise.

As heavy as this may feel, there's also good news. Research shows there are clear steps we can take as parents, caregivers, and communities to reduce risk and strengthen protective factors in our teens' lives.

A Parent Story

I'll never forget the night my daughter came into the kitchen, tears streaming down her face, and said quietly, "Mom, sometimes I wish I wasn't here." My heart stopped. A thousand thoughts raced through my mind-fear, guilt, confusion-but what I did next mattered most.

I took a deep breath, put down the dish towel, and sat with her. I didn't rush to fix it. I didn't tell her to "cheer up." I asked, "Can you tell me more about how you're feeling?"

That conversation didn't solve everything, but it opened a door. It showed her that I could handle her pain, that she didn't have to hide it, and that together we could look for help.

Moments like these are terrifying for parents— but they also remind us that being present, listening without judgment, and asking the hard questions can be lifesaving

But, what do you do if you suspect someone you know could be feeling suicidal? The answer is easier than you think.

Misconceptions about Suicide

• Asking will give them the idea
• People who talk about it won't attempt it
• Suicide happens without warning
• Only people who are depressed or mentally ill die by suicide
• Improvement in the suicidal person means that the risk is over
• Patient's, under a doctor's care are not at suicidal risk

Understanding Risk Factors

Some risk factors are outside of our control, but being aware of them helps us stay alert:

• Mental health struggles: Depression, anxiety, or substance use can heighten risk.
• History of suicide attempts: Teens who have tried before are at the highest risk.
• Stressful life events: Bullying, family conflict, and exposure to violence take a toll.
• Access to lethal means: Firearms and unsecured medications in the home pose major danger.
• Family dynamics: Teens who feel disconnected, unseen, or unsupported at home are more vulnerable.
• Specific groups: Female students, LGBTQ+ youth, and teens from racial or ethnic minority backgrounds face higher risk.

Building Protective Factors

• Strong parental support: Teens who feel loved and cared for by parents are more resilient.
• Connection at school and with peers: Having a sense of belonging helps buffer stress.
• Healthy lifestyle habits: Sleep, exercise, and routine all support mental health.
• Affirming communities: Safe spaces and inclusive policies, especially for LGBTQ+ youth, provide critical

What Works: Prevention Strategies Parents Should Know

• Start early: Conversations about feelings, stress, and mental health should begin in middle school (or earlier).
• Ask directly: Screening in schools and medical settings helps, but so does a parent asking, "I've noticed you're struggling-have you ever had thoughts of hurting yourself?"
• Make the home safer: Lock up firearms and medications. Reducing access saves lives.
• Lean on proven therapies: Treatments like CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) reduce suicide risk.
• Encourage school-based programs: Programs like Signs of Suicide and Sources of Strength teach coping skills and reduce attempts.
• Strengthen family bonds: Interventions like the Family Check-Up show that improving family communication lowers long-term risk.
• Know crisis resources: The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 by call or text for teens and parents.

Looking Ahead

Researchers are also exploring new directions, like:

• Tailoring support for Indigenous, rural, and LGBTQ+ teens.
• Using digital mental health tools, apps, and even games to reach teens where they are.
• Breaking down barriers that keep families from accessing affordable care.

What Parents Can Do Today

Check in regularly: Don't wait for a crisis-ask how your teen is feeling, and listen without judgment.

YOU CAN ASK - do you feel suicidal?If you have concerns about suicide - ask you child, you will not be putting anything in their mind they don't already have and it shows that you are aware of their experience.

Model openness: Share your own ups and downs. It helps normalize conversations about mental health.

Create safety at home: Secure potential lethal means, set routines, and foster connection.

Know when to reach out: If you're worried, contact a counselor, doctor, or call 988 right away.

Reflection & Action

Connection Check: When was the last time I had a meaningful, no-distraction conversation with my teen? What might help me create more of those moments?

Safety Scan: Are there firearms, medications, or other potential dangers in my home that need to be locked up or secured?
Modeling Openness: Do I share my own stresses or challenges in healthy ways, so my teen knows it's okay to talk about theirs?

Community Support: Who are the trusted adults— teachers, coaches, relatives —my teen can turn to if they need another safe space?

Resource Readiness: Do I know how to quickly access professional help or crisis support if needed (e.g., 988 Lifeline)?

Final Word

As parents, we can't eliminate every risk. But we can build connection, create safe environments, and ensure our kids know they're not alone. Suicide prevention is not about having all the answers—it's about showing up, staying curious, and reaching out for help when needed.

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Jennifer Eve Taylor, JD

Ronnie's Awesome List presents a guest article Jennifer Eve Taylor, JD is the President of JET ED Consulting, the Premier provider of educational consultative services providing families with the best options for each family's unique circumstances. Jennifer is a Member of the Board of Directors for The Therapeutic Consulting Association and Associate Member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association. Visit the JET ED Consulting website at jetedconsulting.com for more information.

* Data from American Foundation for Suicide Prevention - www.afsp.org

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