Suicide and self-harm prevention: How to protect your child

If your child shows signs of suicidal or self-harming thoughts, you can start helping by talking to them about any difficult emotions they are experiencing. Other times, however, you may need to take more immediate action.

What to do if your child expresses thoughts of suicide or self-harm

If your child has told you about their thoughts of suicide or self-harm, take them seriously and follow the steps below.

1. Explore these thoughts calmly, supporting your child's feelings.
   
2. Keep your child safe. At home, this includes locking away any means that they might use to harm themselves, such as sharp objects, medications, cleaners or household chemicals, or ropes.
   
3. Seek help from your child's health-care provider. They might recommend an assessment with a mental health-care professional such as a psychiatrist, psychologist or social worker.
   
4. If you or your child are concerned that they may act on the suicidal thoughts, seek immediate assistance in the nearest Emergency Department, call 911 or call the number of your local crisis line.
   

Further information

For more information on protecting your child or teen from suicide or self-harm, please see the following pages:

Suicide in children and teens: Overview

Self-harm in children and teens: Overview

Suicide risk: Signs and symptoms

Suicide and self-harm: How to talk to your child about their emotions

Resources

In Canada, children and teens in distress can contact KidsHelpPhone on KidsHelpPhone.ca or call 1-800-688-6868.

How do I talk to the young person in my life about suicide?