How to Talk With a Suicidal Teen

The teenage years can be very challenging for teens. Teens can have problems coping with social, educational and sometimes financial pressures that adults sometimes view as trivial. Most teens don't know how to deal with these issues and become depressed and in some cases suicidal over these problems. If you're teen is showing signs of contemplating suicide and you want to speak with him, approach the situation carefully, listen to him and always consider his feelings.

Instructions

• 1

  Ask the teen if you can speak with him. Go to a location that is comfortable for the teen and also offers you privacy for a confidential conversation. Restaurants make good locations because you can speak privately in a booth and talk over a meal.

• 2

  Encourage the teen to tell you what is happening in her life that is causing her distress. Listen actively to everything she is saying. Don't interrupt her and don't be judgmental. Let her know you are interested in what she has to say. Ask questions when necessary to help develop a clear understanding of what is happening in her life.

• 3

  Share comparable experiences with the teen from when you were his age and explain how you worked through that situation. Share experiences the teen can relate to. Help the teen understand the problem is temporary and things will get better with time. Avoid statements belittling the teen's problems.

• 4

  Offer the teen resources to help with her problem. Give her the phone number to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) in case she wants to speak with someone else about her suicidal thoughts. If she does not feel comfortable speaking with you, offer to help her meet with a professional counselor, or suggest she speak with a friend, another family member or spiritual adviser. Follow up on the teen's progress on a day-to-day basis and monitor her improvement.