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SafeGuarding Hub

Warning Signs of Suicidal Thoughts in Children and Young People

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Know What to Look For. Know When to Act.

Recognising the signs of emotional distress early can help save a life. While not all young people show clear or obvious signs, many do show warning signals that something isn’t right.

Key Warning Signs of Suicidal Thoughts:​

If a child or young person is:

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Talking or Writing About:

  • Wanting to die or kill themselves

  • Feeling hopeless or having no reason to live

  • Feeling like a burden to others

  • Saying they have no purpose

  • Mentioning suicide, even casually

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“Everyone would be better off without me.”
“I can’t do this anymore.”
“I wish I could just disappear.”

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Emotional Signs:

  • Ongoing sadness or low mood

  • Sudden mood swings (calm after being extremely distressed may indicate a decision has been made)

  • Extreme anxiety, agitation, or rage

  • Withdrawal from family and friends

  • Loss of interest in hobbies or school

  • Feeling worthless or guilty

  • Expressing shame or humiliation

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Behavioural Signs:

  • Giving away personal belongings or writing “goodbye” notes

  • Suddenly putting affairs in order (e.g., deleting social accounts, saying unusual goodbyes)

  • Risk-taking behaviour (reckless driving, unsafe sex, substance misuse)

  • Isolating themselves more than usual

  • Increased use of alcohol or drugs

  • Sleeping too little or too much

  • Self-harming (cutting, burning, hitting) — a strong risk factor for suicide

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Physical Signs:

  • Unexplained injuries

  • Changes in eating habits (overeating or refusing food)

  • Noticeable weight loss or gain

  • Tiredness, low energy, or complaints of frequent headaches or stomach-aches

 

Who Might Be at Higher Risk?

Suicidal thoughts can affect any child or teen, but they may be more common in those who:

  • Have a history of self-harm or suicide attempts

  • Have experienced trauma, abuse, or bullying

  • Identify as LGBTQ+ and lack support

  • Are dealing with family breakdown or bereavement

  • Have a mental health condition such as depression or anxiety

  • Feel isolated or socially excluded

  • Are under academic or social pressure

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What You Can Do as a Parent or Carer

  • Take all signs seriously — never assume they’re “just being dramatic”

  • Ask directly: “Are you thinking about suicide?” (It will not put the idea in their head)

  • Listen without judgement and stay calm

  • Don’t dismiss their feelings, even if they don’t seem logical

  • Seek help immediately if you're worried about their safety

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If You’re Concerned Right Now

  • In an emergency, call 999 or take them to A&E

  • Papyrus HOPELINE247: 0800 068 41 41 | Text 07860 039967

  • Samaritans: 116 123 (24/7)

  • Childline: 0800 1111

  • YoungMinds Crisis Text Line: Text YM to 85258
     

When to Seek Professional Help

  • If suicidal thoughts are mentioned (even once)

  • If your child is self-harming or showing depressive behaviours

  • If their behaviour changes drastically

  • If they have a suicide plan or have made an attempt
     

Speak to your GP, school mental health lead, or a specialist service like CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services).


Final Note for Parents

If you’re reading this and feeling overwhelmed, please know this:

You are not failing as a parent. You are doing your best. And your child can get better.

We’re here to help you navigate this with compassion, clarity, and support.

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