A reminder on the prevention of suicidal behavior in minors
Parents and guardians
It’s crucial to understand the difference between a child’s normal emotional reactions and experiences that can have serious consequences. We offer several recommendations to help you recognize if your child is experiencing serious problems.
Listen to your child, even if he doesn’t say anything.
Carefully study the signs of suicidal behavior, which may indicate that the child is experiencing severe emotional distress:
- Avoids communication with family and friends;
- He talks about his worthlessness, that he will never achieve success in life;
- Has a hard time dealing with any conflict or the loss of a loved one;
- Decreased appetite, increased fatigue and restless sleep;
- Unreasonable anxiety and fears appeared, and my mood dropped;
- Spends a lot of time on the Internet and does not share what sites he visits;
- Dark images, previously uncharacteristic for a child, appeared on the wall of the social media account, along with posts about death or ways to end one’s life;
- Skin damage (cuts, burns), even if, according to the child, they did not appear by accident;
- Loss of interest in studies and hobbies.
Talk to your child and provide emotional support.
Build a trusting relationship with your son or daughter and become a friend to your child. Talk openly with your child about their problems. Let them know that sharing their problems with loved ones is normal and that no topic is off-limits. Let them know that you are always ready to listen and help. Never pressure your child or force them to solve problems right now—it’s better to help them. Explain that sadness, grief, fears, and anxiety are feelings that everyone experiences, and that these feelings will pass.
Guardianship is a great responsibility and an important mission. You provide a child with a family, care, and a chance for a happy future. A guardian is also a parent.
If you feel you can’t cope with your child’s condition on your own, take them to a clinic or hospital. You should know where to get help.
Sometimes a few hours can make a difference. Your primary care physician can refer you to mental health specialists, psychologists, psychotherapists, or addiction psychiatrists.
Simply call the emergency psychological help line 133 to receive information about possible options for professional assistance.
If your child has self-harmed, call an ambulance. After providing first aid, be sure to take your child to a psychologist or other mental health professional. This will save their life!
