How to Talk to Teens About Depression & Suicide
A teenage girl sits outside near a tree with her head resting on her hand, looking sad. The text reads: "Teen Depression & Suicide: What Parents Need to Know" with the Cyber Safety Cop logo.

The stigma and silence surrounding mental illness discourages many teens from seeking help. YOU can make a difference for your teen. At the Wellness and Prevention Center, we help to reduce that stigma while providing services and safe spaces for you and your child.

Early Intervention Leads to a Healthy Future

Does it surprise you to know that parents are the most powerful influence in a child’s life — greater than peers, popular music, television, celebrities and the media? Parents and caretakers are the experts about their child. Your intervention can change your child’s life.

Signs your child may need help

If your child is struggling emotionally or behaviorally, here are signs to watch out for:

  • Changes in sleep patterns – both trouble sleeping and sleeping more
  • Extreme mood swings, particularly anger in teen boys as this is often a symptom of Depression
  • Isolation from peers and family Changes in eating behaviors
  • Participation in high-risk behaviors – this can often be a teen’s method for seeking help
  • Drop in grades or lack of self-care

Parenting Tips and Support

  • Tufts University–Child & Family Web Guide www.cfw.tufts.edu The WebGuide is a directory that evaluates, describes, and provides
    links to hundreds of sites containing child development research and practical advice.
  • Because I Love You (BILY) www.bily.org Parent and youth support groups, because you know your teen best.
  • Remind your teen that you love and respect them, want to help them succeed, are here for them no matter what.
  • American Academy for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry The AACAP is a non-profit organization and includes 8000 child and adolescent psychiatrists throughout the US. Contact them at 202-966-7300 or

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