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Youth Suicide Prevention: What Parents and Caregivers Need to Know

  • Writer: Kwesi Codrington, MSN,CRNP,PMHNP-BC
    Kwesi Codrington, MSN,CRNP,PMHNP-BC
  • Sep 17, 2025
  • 2 min read
Leaning on friend or family member for support
Learn the warning signs of youth suicide and how parents and caregivers can support prevention. Guidance, resources, and steps to seek professional help.

As the Lead Therapist at Alliance Wellness Solutions, I meet many families who are concerned about the emotional well-being of their children and adolescents. Suicide remains one of the leading causes of death among young people, and while that is a sobering truth, there is also hope: suicide is preventable. With awareness, compassion, and early  support, parents, caregivers and friends can play a major role in protecting our youth.

Warning Signs Parents Should Look For 

While every child is different, some signs may indicate that a young person is struggling. Pay close attention to: 

  • Changes in behavior: withdrawal from friends, loss of interest in activities, or declining school performance. 

  • Expressions of hopelessness: statements like “I don’t see the point anymore” or “I wish I could disappear.” 

  • Changes in mood: increased irritability, frequent sadness, or sudden bursts of anger. 

  • Changes in daily habits: disrupted sleep, loss of appetite, or neglecting personal hygiene. 

  • Risky or self-destructive behavior: substance use, self-harm, or reckless decision-making. 


If you notice a combination of these signs, especially if your child is talking about death or suicide directly, it’s important to take it seriously and act quickly. 


How Parents Can Start the Conversation 

It can feel overwhelming to know how to approach a child about suicide. Here are a few tips that may help: 

  1. Stay calm. Be open: Even if you feel frightened, your child needs to know they can speak honestly without judgment. 

  2. Ask directly: Research shows that asking about suicide does not plant the idea—it shows you care. Try: “I’ve noticed you’ve been really down lately. Have you had thoughts about hurting yourself?” 

  3. Listen more than you speak: Give them space to share their feelings. Resist the urge to immediately “fix” things. 

  4. Offer reassurance: Let them know they are not alone and that help is available. 

  5. Seek professional support: A licensed therapist can guide both you and your child through next steps. 


Resources for Immediate Support 

  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Dial 988 for 24/7 support. 

  • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained counselor. 

  • Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ youth): 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678678. 

For families in the Maryland area: 

  • Baltimore County Crisis Response: 410-931-2214 

  • Sheppard Pratt Crisis Walk-In Clinic (Towson, MD): 410-938-5302  


How Alliance Wellness Solutions Can Help 

If you are concerned about your child or a loved one, reaching out to a professional is the most important step you can take. At Alliance Wellness Solutions, we provide therapy and psychiatric services tailored to children, adolescents, and families. Our team works to create a safe, supportive space where young people can talk about their feelings, learn healthy coping skills, and build resilience. 

You don’t have to go through this alone. If you’re ready to take the next step, contact our Towson office today to schedule a free confidential consultation. Together, we can support your child’s path to healing and hope.  

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