Understanding Suicide Risk in Young People: A Guide for Parents

As a parent, your greatest hope is to see your child safe, happy, and thriving. But for many families, the teenage years can bring unexpected challenges, including concerns about mental health and, in some cases, suicide risk.

It’s an incredibly painful topic—one that many parents find frightening to talk about. But opening up these conversations, learning the warning signs, and knowing where to turn for help can make a profound difference. You are not alone, and there is support available for both you and your child.

Why Young People May Struggle

Adolescence is a time of enormous change. Hormonal shifts, identity exploration, social pressures, and academic expectations can all create overwhelming stress. On top of this, young people today are navigating additional challenges, such as:

Social media and online pressures
Bullying or exclusion
Family conflicts or relationship issues
Academic stress or uncertainty about the future

For some young people, these pressures can lead to feelings of hopelessness, isolation, or despair.

Warning Signs to Look Out For

Every young person is different, but there are some common signs that may indicate your child is struggling:

Withdrawal from friends, family, or activities they used to enjoy
Noticeable changes in mood, sleep, or appetite
Expressing feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, or being a burden
Talking or joking about death or suicide
Risk-taking behaviour or sudden changes in personality
Giving away possessions or saying goodbye to people

If you notice any of these signs, it doesn’t necessarily mean your child is thinking about suicide—but it does mean they may need extra support.

How to Talk to Your Child About Suicide

It’s natural to feel scared about bringing up such a sensitive topic, but talking about suicide does not put the idea into a young person’s head. In fact, having open, compassionate conversations can save lives. Here are some tips:

Stay calm and listen. Give your child space to talk without fear of judgment or punishment.
Ask directly but gently. You might say, “I’ve noticed you seem really down lately. Sometimes when people feel like this, they think about hurting themselves. Is that something you’ve been thinking about?”
Validate their feelings. Even if you don’t fully understand, acknowledging their pain can make them feel heard and supported.
Talk about protective factors. What are the positives in their life? What helps them to feel better? Who do they feel supported by? What strategies can they use?
Offer reassurance. Let them know they are not alone, and that help is available.

How Can Parents Help — and Feel Supported Themselves?

It’s easy to feel like you’re walking on a tightrope: wanting to help your child return to school, but not wanting to push them further into distress. The pressure on parents to maintain their own routine, employment and avoid fines is incredible. The good news is that your love, patience, and presence are already doing more than you may realise.

Here’s how you can nurture your child — and yourself — through EBSA:

Begin with Compassion — for You and Your Child

You are not failing, and neither is your child. EBSA is not caused by poor parenting, or by your teen being “difficult.” It’s a sign of emotional overload, and your calm presence is a powerful anchor in the storm.

“It’s okay that school feels too hard right now. We’ll figure this out together.”

Prioritise Connection Over Correction

Your child may not be ready to talk about school — and that’s okay. Focus on keeping the relationship strong through everyday moments: sharing a meal, watching a show together, or taking a quiet walk.

A 2023 report from Young Minds highlights that emotional connection with a parent or carer is the strongest protective factor for teens facing school-related distress.

Even when progress feels slow, your ongoing care builds emotional safety — which lays the groundwork for healing.

Seeking Professional Help

You don’t have to handle this on your own. Support from trained professionals can make an enormous difference. Some options include:

Your GP – A first step for assessment and referrals
Mental health support in school, college, university or work – Often a trusted, accessible resource
Support groups – Being part of a community reduces feelings of isolation
Therapists or mental health specialists – For ongoing, tailored support
Crisis helplines and online chat services – Immediate help when needed
A&E – When a young person is feeling unable to keep themselves safe

Support Services You Can Reach Out To

Samaritans – Call 116 123 or visit www.samaritans.org
Shout – Text 85258

You can also learn more about suicide risk and prevention through Zero Suicide Alliance (ZSA)

Taking Care of Yourself as a Parent

Supporting a young person in crisis can be emotionally draining. Make sure you seek support for yourself, too—whether that’s talking to friends, joining a parent support group, or seeking counselling. You are doing your best, and you don’t have to navigate this journey alone.

A Final Reminder

If you are worried your child may act on suicidal thoughts, seek immediate help by calling emergency services or going to your nearest hospital.

Your love and support are powerful protective factors. By listening, staying connected, and seeking help when needed, you are giving your child the best chance to heal and find hope.