Please be aware of some of the warning signs and risk factors of suicide. Here’s some do’s and don’ts which might help you, or someone you know:
- Do be open and honest with your teen – keep communication open
- Don’t be judgemental or say ‘get over it’ (an issue you think is small might be insurmountable to your teen)
- Do be aware if your teen withdraws
- Do watch for signs of self-harm
- Do be vigilant for changes in your child’s ‘normal’ behaviours
- Do watch the behaviours of your child’s friendship circles
- Do evaluate any signs of bullying or cyberbullying
- Do approach authorities, the school and/or Police
- Do take your child to a Counsellor
- Do not think your child (or anyone for that matter) is attention seeking if they speak of suicide
- Do watch out for your child engaging in dangerous or high-risk behaviours (often this happens in the hope that death will occur)
- Do not be afraid to ask if he or she is thinking about suicide, or is depressed
- Do not leave the person alone
- Do ask your teen to give you any weapons, objects etc which may cause them harm
Want more information? Dr Maguire’s book Selfies, sexting, suicide and savagery: Welcome to the era of narcissism will be released at the end on 2016. You can pre-order by emailing info@nowgeneration.com.au. Want a Now Generation consultant to speak at your conference, school, organisational masterclass? Contact Lynette on info@nowgeneration.com.au
