Suicidal Counseling

Counseling for Individuals with Suicidal Thoughts

If you’ve just learned that your child is suicidal, it’s only natural to feel lost on what to do or where to turn. Knowing that your teen is struggling so much that they consider ending 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.

Counseling can support your teen and your family during this unimaginably difficult time.

young man dressed in professional clothes sits with head in his hand, stressed with suicidal thoughts

Our Structured & Effective Teen Therapy Includes:

Individual Teen Therapy

DBT Therapy for Children on Long Island

DBT for Young Adults

Group DBT Therapy on Long Island

Group Therapy

Family DBT Therapy on Long Island

Family Therapy

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.

Now is not the time for regrets. Instead, focus on listening 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 that you spend with your child and working on your communication with one another. This approach serves two purposes. Firstly, you are keeping an eye on their physical safety. Secondly, you strengthen your relationship with your teen.

a mother comforts her teen daughter who is having suicidal thoughts
a parent sits thinking about their teen who is having suicidal thoughts

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 and 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. They can help your child heal emotionally, too. Consider finding a therapist for yourself for support during this difficult time. A therapist will not only help you cope, but can also help you find more effective ways to support your child.

Depressed Upset African American Teen Girl Feeling Hurt Sitting
teen texting the suicide hotline

Emergency Suicide Resources

If you are in crisis or experiencing suicidal thoughts, you can call, text, or online chat with the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. The line is available 24/7, with support in English or Spanish.

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