It will create an opportunity to offer support, and let them know you care enough to have the conversation. Asking your child directly about suicide will not increase their risk, or plant the idea.

If your child is talking about any level of distress, do not hesitate to ask them whether they’re feeling changes in their mood or level of stress, or having suicidal thoughts. If your teen or tween’s sleep, energy, appetite, motivation, substance use, and frustration aren’t bouncing back to normal after a few days, have them see their pediatrician or a mental health practitioner. It’s worth engaging them in conversation to get a fuller understanding of what they are experiencing so you can provide support, and get a better sense of how severe it is. It could be just the tip of the iceberg of possible changes in their physical or mental health. Trust your instincts if their behavior goes beyond these usual patterns of behavior. You know their usual patterns, their common reactions to frustration and challenges, and what their good days and bad days look like. These are not typical manifestations for teenage angst.

What should be concerning is if you notice indications of hopelessness or worthlessness, a withdrawal from friends and activities, or suicidal thinking or behavior. This is a natural part of adolescent development. But there is a normal range which can manifest as moodiness, irritability, and pushing you away. When children hit puberty, there are changes in their body and brain that can and do lead to behavioral changes. If your child has a history of depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, self-harm or substance use, you should monitor them more closely, and consider involving a professional, either at key times, or for the longer term for more chronic conditions. You can learn how to invite deeper conversations through further guidance listed on this page. They will also understand that life is messy and challenging for everyone at different times.Ĭheck in with your child regularly, beyond just day-to-day tasks such as homework. They may develop flexibility and compassion for their own missteps - possibly even empathy for others, seeing how you navigate challenging times. If your child sees you approaching your own challenges and learning for your own mistakes in an open way, they will understand that it’s okay to struggle and to learn from mistakes. Taking care of your own mental health, talking about it openly, and seeking therapy when warranted is one way to model healthy practices. As a parent, you can teach and model healthy habits for mental health just as you would with physical health.

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