Discover answers to common questions parents have about suicide prevention, including warning signs, how to start conversations, and where to seek support.
Talking about suicide can feel incredibly daunting for parents. Many worry that they’ll say the wrong thing, make the situation worse, or not recognise when their young person is struggling. Yet one of the most important messages behind World Suicide Prevention Month is that open, compassionate conversations save lives.
Understanding the facts can help parents feel more confident in supporting a young person who may be experiencing emotional distress.
Can asking about suicide make things worse?
This is one of the most common concerns parents have.
The answer is no.
Research consistently shows that asking someone directly and compassionately whether they are having thoughts of suicide does not increase the risk or “put the idea in their head.” Instead, it can provide relief by giving them permission to talk openly about how they’re feeling.
If you’re concerned, choose a quiet moment and ask calmly, without judgement. Listening is often more powerful than trying to find the perfect words.
What are the warning signs?
Every young person is different, but some common signs include:
- Withdrawal from family and friends
- Persistent sadness or hopelessness
- Increased irritability or emotional outbursts
- Changes in sleeping or eating habits
- Loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed
- Talking about feeling like a burden or believing others would be better off without them
- Giving away treasured possessions or saying goodbye in unusual ways
It’s important to remember that not every young person will display obvious signs. Some continue attending school, spending time with friends and appearing outwardly “fine” while struggling internally.
How should I start the conversation?
Parents often feel they need to have all the answers before starting the conversation.
You don’t.
Simple, compassionate observations can open the door.
For example:
“I’ve noticed you haven’t seemed yourself lately.”
“I’ve been worried about you and wanted to check in.”
“You don’t have to go through this alone.”
Approach the conversation with curiosity rather than assumptions, and allow your young person time to speak without rushing to solve the problem.
What should I avoid saying?
While these comments are usually well-intentioned, phrases such as “You’ll get over it,” or “Other people have it worse” can unintentionally make a young person feel misunderstood.
Instead, acknowledge their feelings.
Saying “That sounds incredibly difficult” or “Thank you for telling me” helps create emotional safety and encourages further conversation.
When should I seek additional support?
If a young person talks about suicide, expresses feelings of hopelessness, or you’re concerned for their immediate safety, it’s important to seek urgent support from the appropriate emergency or healthcare services without delay.
Even when there isn’t an immediate crisis, ongoing changes in mood, behaviour or emotional wellbeing should never be ignored. Speaking with a GP or qualified mental health professional can help determine what support may be appropriate.
Every conversation matters
Many parents worry about saying the wrong thing. In reality, saying something with kindness and compassion is almost always better than saying nothing at all.
At Lions Campus, we understand how difficult these conversations can feel. We believe that meaningful support begins with listening, building trust and creating environments where young people feel safe enough to share what they’re experiencing. Through our structured residential and day programmes, mentoring and wellbeing-focused activities, we support young people in building resilience, confidence and healthier coping strategies alongside any external professional support they may already be receiving.
If there’s one message to remember this World Suicide Prevention Month, it’s this: you don’t have to have all the answers—you simply have to be willing to start the conversation. That single conversation could make more of a difference than you realise.
