What to Do If Your Child Is in Crisis

1. Prioritize Immediate Safety

• Remove Potential Hazards: Secure medications, sharp objects, and anything else that could be used for self-harm.
• Create a Safe Space: Encourage open communication by letting your child know they can share their thoughts without fear of judgment.
• Create a safety plan , it can help guide the conversation with loved ones as well as for yourself if you find yourself in a crisis. A plan for what to do before a crisis occurs is an important step in suicide prevention. 

2. Establish a Supportive Environment

• Be Present: Use the framework: Look. Listen. Love.
  • Look for signs your child might need extra support.
  • Listen to their feelings and validate their emotions without judgment.
  • Love them unconditionally by showing patience and understanding.
• Model Calmness: Your emotional state can influence theirs. Take care of yourself so you can stay calm and supportive.

3. Create a Care Team

• Start or Continue Therapy or Counseling: Ensure your child attends follow-up appointments with their behavioral health professional. If you need assistance finding a mental health provider, access the Mental Health Directory.
• Collaborate With Professionals: Keep in touch with your child’s care team, including their primary doctor or school staff, to understand and follow their recommendations. If you’re unsure where to start, reach out to your local Behavioral Health Clinics for support.
• Use Crisis Resources: Keep the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number accessible for emergencies.

4. Encourage Connection

• Foster Healthy Relationships: Help your child build a circle of supportive friends and family members.
• Engage in Activities: Encourage activities that your child enjoys and finds meaningful.

5. Watch for Warning Signs

• Changes in behavior, mood, or sleep patterns.
• Withdrawal from friends and family.
• Talking about feeling hopeless or burdensome.

6. Take Care of Yourself

• Seek Support: Joining a support group for parents can help you process your emotions and feel less alone.
• Self Care: Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Take moments to recharge so you can continue to provide care.

7. Keep the Conversation Going

• Talk openly about mental health. By normalizing these discussions, you reduce stigma and show your child it’s okay to seek help. Listening is just as important as talking—when you take the time to truly listen, you help your child feel valued and understood.
• Recovery is a journey, not a straight path. Your presence, love, and persistence can make all the difference. You’ve got this—and help is always available.