As a parent or carer, it can be upsetting and frightening to think that a child or young person may be struggling with thoughts of suicide or self-harm. However, support is available, and early conversations can make a real difference.
Self-harm and suicidal thoughts are often a sign that a young person is experiencing overwhelming emotional distress. By listening, offering support and seeking help when needed, you can help them stay safe and access the right support.
Recognising the Signs
Children and young people may not always tell someone how they are feeling. Signs that a young person may be struggling can include:
- Withdrawing from family, friends or activities they usually enjoy
- Changes in mood, behaviour, sleep or eating habits
- Feeling hopeless, worthless or overwhelmed
- Talking about wanting to disappear, giving up or feeling like a burden
- Unexplained injuries, cuts, burns or bruises
- Increased risk-taking behaviour
- Struggling at school, college or work
- Spending more time alone or isolating themselves
Having one or more of these signs does not necessarily mean a young person is self-harming or having suicidal thoughts, but they may indicate that they need support.
How You Can Help
If you are worried about a child or young person:
- Choose a calm time to talk and listen carefully.
- Avoid judgement, criticism or punishment.
- Let them know you are concerned because you care about them.
- Reassure them that they are not alone and that support is available.
- Encourage them to speak to a trusted adult, GP, school nurse, teacher or mental health professional.
- Take any mention of self-harm or suicide seriously.
It is okay to ask direct questions about how they are feeling. Talking openly about suicide does not increase risk and can help a young person feel understood and supported.
Further Support and Advice
If you are worried about a child or young person who may be self-harming or experiencing thoughts of suicide, support is available. You do not have to deal with these concerns alone.
If you need urgent mental health advice or support, contact NHS 111 Wales. They can help you access appropriate services and support.
Call 111
A confidential listening and information service for people in Wales experiencing emotional distress or mental health difficulties.
Call: 0800 132 737
Text: HELP to 81066
A free information, advice and advocacy helpline for children and young people up to the age of 25 in Wales.
Call: 0808 80 23456
Text: 84001
A free, confidential service for children and young people who need support or someone to talk to.
Call: 0800 1111
Available 24 hours a day for anyone who is struggling to cope, having suicidal thoughts, or concerned about someone else.
Call: 116 123
A free, confidential 24/7 text messaging support service for anyone experiencing a mental health crisis.
Text: SHOUT to 85258
CALM provides practical advice, information and support for people struggling with life, experiencing suicidal thoughts, or worried about someone they care about. The website includes helpful resources for parents, carers and families.
Provides trusted information, advice and guidance on children's and young people's mental health, including support specifically for parents and carers.
A free online wellbeing and mental health support service offering self-help resources, peer support and professional counselling for young people.
Need Help Now?
If a child or young person has seriously harmed themselves, taken an overdose, or is at immediate risk of harm, call 999 or attend the nearest Accident and Emergency (A&E) department.
If you are concerned about a child's safety or wellbeing, please contact your local Children's Services or follow local safeguarding procedures.
Remember: Talking openly and calmly about self-harm or suicide can help a child or young person feel supported. Early support and intervention can make a significant difference.