Supporting Our Children During Suicide Prevention Month

September is Suicide Prevention Month, and for many parents, even seeing that phrase connected to children can feel overwhelming or unthinkable. As parents, we naturally want to believe our kids are safe from thoughts of self-harm or despair. Yet, as our world and society continue to change, we’ve seen a troubling increase in children’s and teens’ mental health struggles.

Even very young children are not immune to feelings of hopelessness, fear, or disconnection. Adolescents and teens, especially, can face mounting pressures from school, friendships, social media, and family changes. While we may not want to imagine our children struggling in this way, awareness and early support are some of the most powerful tools we have to protect their well-being.

How Play Therapy Helps

Play therapy is uniquely suited to help children and adolescents process big emotions in a developmentally appropriate way. Children often can’t put words to what they’re feeling—but through play, they can safely express their inner world. A trained play therapist can help kids:

1. Communicate through play what feels too overwhelming to say out loud

2. Build coping skills and emotional regulation tools that empower them to manage stress, sadness, or frustration

3. Strengthen parent-child connection, creating a safe and supportive relationship where kids know they are heard and understood

4. Address underlying concerns like anxiety, depression, bullying, grief, or trauma, which may contribute to feelings of hopelessness

The Role of Parents

Parents are an essential part of the healing process. By engaging in therapy, learning about a child’s inner experiences, and practicing new skills at home, parents can create an environment where children feel deeply supported and less alone.

Taking the First Step

Talking about suicide prevention isn’t easy, but it is necessary. When we open the door for honest conversations and seek support early, we give our children the best chance at resilience and hope. If you’ve noticed changes in your child’s mood, behavior, or social connections, reaching out to a play therapist could be an important step.

This month, let’s commit as parents and communities to breaking the silence, reducing stigma, and supporting the mental health of our youngest generation.