In today’s digital age, children and teens are facing unprecedented challenges, many of which have a significant impact on their mental health. Suicide, the second leading cause of death among youth aged 10 to 19 according to Pew Research, is a crisis that demands attention from parents, educators, and communities alike. However, the topic of suicide is often shrouded in silence, leaving children without the tools they need to express their feelings or seek help. Breaking this silence is not just necessary—it’s lifesaving.
During our 2023 webinar titled “It Takes a Community: Suicide Recognition and Prevention” experts in the field of suicide prevention shared critical insights on how to address this sensitive topic with children. The panel featured Dr. Lisa Stroman, a psychologist, attorney, and founder of Digital Citizen Academy; Chief Thomas Trewick, former Chief of Safety and Security for Clayton County Public Schools and current CEO of Reimagined Campus Security LLC; and Alan Mednick, Suicide Prevention Manager at LivingWorks, who has personal experience as a bereaved father. Their combined expertise offers invaluable guidance on how to have these difficult but essential conversations.
Start Early: It’s Never Too Soon to Talk About Mental Health
One of the most significant points raised during the webinar was the importance of beginning conversations about mental health and suicide at an early age. Dr. Lisa Stroman, a psychologist with extensive experience in youth mental health, emphasized that children are increasingly exposed to stressors that previous generations didn’t face until much later in life. These include cyberbullying, social media pressures, and the general pace of modern life.
“We have to get into that elementary school age and start much earlier than we have been,” Dr. Stroman explained. She advocated for using simple language and concepts that children can easily grasp. For example, using a “traffic light” system to categorize feelings—green for good, yellow for uncertain, and red for feeling unsafe—can help young children articulate their emotions without feeling overwhelmed.
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Chief Thomas Trewick, with his background in school safety and security, stressed the importance of a community approach when discussing suicide with children. He shared how involving parents, school counselors, and local organizations can create a supportive environment where children feel safe to talk about their feelings.
“When you have a child in crisis, it’s not just the child; it’s also the nucleus of the family,” Chief Trewick said. He recommended that parents work closely with schools to ensure that children understand they have multiple avenues for support, whether it’s talking to a teacher, a school counselor, or a trusted family member.
Foster an Environment for Open Conversations
Alan Mednick, who lost his daughter to suicide, brought a powerful personal perspective to the discussion. He highlighted the importance of creating an environment where children feel comfortable sharing their thoughts without fear of judgment.
“You still need to see the signs, but it’s okay to reach out and get help,” Mednick advised. He suggested that parents and educators should encourage children to express their feelings and reassure them that it’s normal to seek help when they’re struggling.
Address Cultural and Societal Stigmas
The webinar also touched on the cultural and societal barriers that often prevent families from discussing suicide. Chief Trewick noted that in some communities, particularly those with lower socioeconomic status, there may be a lack of trust in mental health services or a cultural norm of keeping personal struggles private.
“We’re always taught, ‘suck it up, you’ll be okay.’ Wrong answer. You won’t be okay. You need help, and we have to talk about it,” Chief Trewick stated. Breaking these stigmas involves educating not just children, but entire communities, about the importance of mental health and open communication.
Practical Steps for Parents and Educators
- Introduce the Topic Early: Use age-appropriate language to explain that mental health is just as important as physical health. For younger children, simple analogies like the traffic light system can help them express their feelings.
- Involve the Community: Engage with school counselors, local mental health organizations, and parent-teacher associations to create a network of support for your child.
- Encourage Open Dialogue: Regularly initiate conversations with your child about their feelings and assure them that it’s okay to talk about difficult emotions.
- Be Aware of Cultural Sensitivities: Understand the cultural and societal factors that might influence how your child perceives mental health and be prepared to address these issues compassionately.
- Know the Signs: Familiarize yourself with the warning signs of suicide, such as changes in behavior, withdrawal from social activities, or talking about death. If you notice these signs, don’t hesitate to seek professional help.
By breaking the silence and starting these conversations early, we can equip our children with the tools they need to navigate their emotions and seek help when they need it. Remember, it’s never too early to start talking about mental health, and doing so could be the key to preventing a tragedy. As Dr. Stroman wisely noted, “It’s an issue of community, love, and support.”
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