Long Island Suicidal Counseling

If you’ve just learned that your child is suicidal, it’s only natural to feel lost on what to do. Knowing that your teen is struggling so much that they want to end their life is heartbreaking for any parent. You likely want to swoop them up and protect them, and yet, what you need is a plan.

Our Structured & Effective Teen Therapy Includes:

Listen to Your Teen, and Take Them Seriously

It’s essential to listen to your teen and to take their concerns seriously. There may be issues that they are struggling with that you may not have been aware of before. It can be hard, as a parent, to admit that you didn’t recognize that your teen has been hurting. You might have misinterpreted other behaviors, such as acting out or misbehaving.

Though now is not the time for regrets. Instead, focus on listing to your teen. You don’t need to have all the answers, but be present and hear them out.

Take the Time to Connect with Your Teen

A part of any suicide prevention plan should be increasing the amount of time and communication that you spend with your child. This approach serves two purposes. Firstly, you are keeping an eye on their physical safety. Secondly, you strengthen your relationship with your teen.

Don’t Be Afraid to Talk About It

Parents can be reluctant to talk about suicide with their teens. They might be afraid that the discussion will inadvertently motivate their teen to want to harm themselves, which is incredibly rare. By getting to the root issues for why they feel suicidal, you can better support them in the healing process.

Assess Your Home for Safety Hazards

If your teen has expressed suicidal thoughts or actions, it would be prudent to take some safety precautions at home. Secure sharp objects, such as knives, silverware, and tools. Medications, whether they’re prescription drugs, over the counter, or recreational (including alcohol and marijuana), should also be locked, too. The same goes for cleaning solutions, household chemicals. If there is a firearm in the home, lock it up in a safe and secure any ammunition.

Teen Counseling If Your Child Is Suicidal

Finally, it’s critical that you get professional help and that your child participates in teen counseling. This situation is not something that you should or ought to have to face on your own.

A counselor who understands teens and their mental health will be able to shed light on the situation. Also, they will help your child heal emotionally too. Additionally, consider finding a therapist for yourself as well.

Long Island Suicidal Counseling