Suicide and self-harm: Helping your child understand difficult emotions

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​​​Find out how to reduce the risk of suicide and self-harm by helping your child cope with difficult emotions.

Key points

  • It is important to talk to your child about any difficult emotions they are dealing with, even if those emotions do not seem overwhelming to you.
  • Be aware of how your child expresses their emotions. Younger children may change their behaviour or play routine. Older children might bottle things up or 'act out' when, really, they are sad or worried.
  • When talking to your child, stay calm, remind them that all emotions are valid, ask direct questions about any thoughts of suicide or self-harm and offer help.
  • Talk to your child's health-care provider or another mental health professional if your child has ongoing difficulties with their emotions, you learn that your child's schoolwork or friendships are suffering, or you have any other concerns about your child’s social or emotional well-being.
Last updated: மார்ச் 20th 2025