By: Jennifer Hardie, MD, FAAP
Every child can be at risk when it comes to suicide. That is why all homes need to be safe for all ages. The adolescent brain is still in the process of developing. It is easy for
intense emotions to quickly become overwhelming. Even kids without a history of mental health conditions like
depression can make impulsive decisions with tragic consequences.
The good news? You have the power to make a difference. A few simple actions can ensure that home is a safe environment for your child.
Suicide can be a sensitive topic to discuss. If you or someone you know is struggling, contact the
Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or text TALK to 741-741.
How can you keep your home safe for your child?
Firearms: An unsecured
firearm is a deadly risk for a child of any age. Here are some facts:
Even if you think you've hidden your gun well, chances are your child will find it. In fact, by as young as first grade, 4 out of 5 kids know where a
gun is hidden in their home.
90% of suicide attempts with a firearm are fatal.
Nearly 2/3 of
firearm deaths are due to suicide.
What can parents do?
If possible, remove the firearm from the home. If there is a
firearm in another home where your child spends time, make sure that it is stored securely.
Always store firearms locked and unloaded. Store ammunition in a separate locked location.
Even if experienced with firearms, young people should only handle them with adult permission and supervision.
Do not share the combination or location of keys to the safe or lockbox with your child.
Medications: Any medication can be dangerous.
What can parents do?
Store all
medications in a lockbox. Buying a lockbox can cost less than $20. If you don't have a lockbox, consider using a padlock with a toolbox or tackle box.
If anyone in the home is taking
opioids for any reason, keep them locked away and be sure to have
naloxone on hand.
Never share
prescription medications.
Dispose of
unused medications properly, as soon as possible.
What else can pose a risk in the home?
Alcohol is a commonly used drug among young people. Alcohol use can increase the risk of impulsive decisions like suicide.
If your child is
thinking about suicide, check your home for other risks. Find and securely store sharp objects such as knives or razors and items such as belts or ropes. You may need to disable locks on bathroom and bedroom doors.
Does talking about suicide with your child make it more likely to happen?
No, talking about suicide will not increase the risk—and your child will be grateful that you care enough to
reach out.
If you notice concerning signs or symptoms,
talk with your child's pediatrician. They can help guide you to the next steps to take. Pediatricians now
screen all children for depression and suicide risk at checkups starting at age 12.
It can be a shock if your child's
behavior changes as they are experiencing mental health symptoms. Talking with the pediatrician is the first step toward getting them the help they need.
Parents know their child best. It's important watch for
warning signs and risk factors:
Withdrawing from friends, family or activities that they used to enjoy.
Talking about feeling hopeless or worthless.
Family history of suicide or mental illness, knowing someone who attempted suicide, or previously attempting suicide themselves.
Sudden changes in behavior.
If your child is expressing thoughts of self-harm, seek help right away. Call your child's doctor or take them to the emergency department.
Remember
It's important to think about mental health every day, not just when problems arise. Parents and caregivers can do this by encouraging good mental health and strong coping skills. Even if your child seems fine, help them set aside time for self-care and healthy habits that boost their mood. Spend quality time together as a family and focus on
making positive connections daily.
If you have questions or concerns about your child and
suicide risk, talk to your pediatrician! They can help you find the care your child needs.
But most importantly, don't wait until your child is in crisis. Make sure that your home is safe today.
More information
About Dr. Hardie
Jennifer Hardie, MD, FAAP, is a pediatrician at Cincinnati Children's Hospital and a member of the Ohio Chapter of the AAP, which sponsors the "Store It Safe" initiative to prevent youth suicide. She is the Ohio AAP Suicide Prevention Ambassador.
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