eye level to communicate effectively.
Let them express their sentiments and ask all the necessary questions, even unpleasant or painful.
Children Over 7 Years Old
Schoolchildren understand mental health difficulties. They gradually realize their own and others’ feelings. This might also make individuals feel guilty for not seeing a friend or family member’s emotional state sooner.
Support and reassurance that the kid is not directly to blame remain crucial in this situation. The National Child Traumatic Stress Network offers guidance for parents and caregivers to address suicide deaths with children. They warn that concealing a loved one’s suicide and stating they died might cause further issues.
Lying to a kid will make them doubt their carers. Grief includes good sadness. We must affirm the child’s feelings and support them through this tough period, not put them on the sidelines or prevent them from experiencing grief.
Other suicide discussion tips for schoolchildren:
- Let the kids express themselves in a quiet, comfortable location.
- Tell their instructors and administrators about the problem.
- Language should match the child’s age and comprehension.
- Communicate honestly without excessive visual descriptions.
- Give hugs.
Children Over 11 Years Old
Preteens and teens comprehend suicide and death. Thus, they require further specifics. They may ask different questions but keep them to themselves. People may feel ashamed to communicate their issues or sentiments with grownups.
The newest data alarms. According to the WHO, suicide is the fourth greatest cause of death for those aged 15-29. Similarly, the NASP (National Association of School Psychologists) reports that teenagers with suicidal thoughts seldom seek treatment directly.
Nevertheless, people express sadness via farewell letters or remarks like “I hope I fall asleep and never wake up again” or “I don’t want to live.”
Suicide and other mental health topics must not remain taboo. Communication is the greatest preventative method. Truths, no matter how sad, should not be hidden.
Clarity, Empathy, & Honesty
When discussing suicide with children, take into account their age and development. We may inquire, “Do they grasp the irreversibility of death?” and “Do they know what suicide implies, or is this the first time they’ve heard the term?”
We must modify our speech to their requirements while being straightforward, empathic, and honest. We need a warm, safe environment.
If we cannot handle this problem, seeking expert aid might be helpful. A psychologist or psychiatrist may tailor tools to your situation to help you cope.