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Youth

Suicide is the second leading cause of death for young people between 10 to 24. Sometimes it feels as though your struggle is being underestimated by your age. But we hear you, and help is available.

How To Take Care Of Yourself

Ask for help. Don’t be afraid to reach out to friends and trusted adults in your life for support. You can also call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline any time — calls are confidential.

Make a safety plan. A safety plan can help guide you through difficult moments and keep you safe. Having a template on hand with an established plan may be helpful, or you can get help and guidance at https://www.mysafetyplan.org/.

Family conflicts, relationship hardships, school pressures, and discovering your identity can feel overwhelming and impossible to deal with alone. Losing relationships and important people in our lives can also feel overwhelming. Seeking out support can make these changes manageable.

Love and friendship are all about respect. Toxic or unhealthy relationships can negatively affect you. Whether you’re dating or building new friendships, remember your rights. If you’re being bullied, help is also available.

How To Help

Never dismiss what your loved one is saying. If your child/adolescent, friend, or family member confides thoughts of suicide, believe them and give them support.

Listen with empathy and provide support. A fight or breakup might not seem like a big deal, but for a young person it can feel immense. Empathize and listen. Don’t minimize their feelings, it can affect how they reach out for support in the future.

Learn the warning signs. Friends sometimes let friends know if they are thinking about suicide or dying. Other times, changes in behavior may show that someone is struggling. For more guidance on steps you can take to help someone thinking of suicide, visit www.bethe1to.org.

Don’t keep suicide a secret. If your friend is considering suicide, don’t promise to keep it a secret. Tell him or her you can help, but you need to involve other people, like a trusted adult. Neither of you have to face this alone.