Parent Checklist: What Every Family Should Know About Suicide & Bullying

Because the storm will pass—and our children need to be here to see the sun again.

Know the Warning Signs

Talking about wanting to die or disappear

Withdrawal from friends, family, or favorite activities

Drastic changes in mood, sleep, or appetite

Not wanting to go to school or wanting to change routines

Giving away treasured items

Expressing hopelessness, shame, or feeling like a burden

Crying a lot, expressing fear or talking about being bullied

Increased aggression, anxiety, or risky behavior

Daily Connection Habits

We often ask generically, “How was your day?”

Ask real questions:

          “What was hard today?”
          “Did anything or anyone make you feel small?”
         “How are you really feeling inside?”

Build a family ritual of “Feelings Check-ins”

Encourage open expression of ALL emotions—no shame

Digital Awareness

Know what apps your child is using and who they’re talking to

Review their apps and conversations on all platforms. If they resist that is even more reason to check.

Talk regularly about online bullying or exclusion

Ask: “Has anything online made you feel upset or scared lately?”

Reassure: “No matter what it is, we’ll face it together. Every storm runs out of rain.”

If You Suspect Suicidal Thoughts

Don’t panic. Be present. This is something that can be treated.

Say:
“Sometimes bad emotions are like really bad thunderstorms. Sometimes they are so strong and so bad we feel like they will never pass—but they do. They always do. You need to be here to see tomorrow.”

Don’t dismiss or downplay. Don’t argue or try to tell them how they feel.

Seek immediate help:

Contact a therapist or counselor

Call/text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or your local crisis line

Safe Space Actions

Identify 3 safe adults your child can talk to– write this down!

Create a “Help Me” code phrase they can use with you

Children need an outlet other than school. They need clubs, sports, or groups.

Post a note somewhere that says:
“Today will pass. The world needs you. You are loved.”

Find more resources here.

Note: Books are magical and help children in so many ways. “Every storm runs out of rain.” is one of Maya Angelou‘s sayings.

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