Psychologists describe child suicide as the last cry for help of a child sent to parents. Such a terrible end is chosen by children who see no other way out for themselves. And even though they look at the situation too hypertrophied, this does not cancel the terrible ending. Therefore, it is necessary to worry about prevention in order to reduce the sad statistics.
Every 12th teenager between the ages of 12 and 20 tries to commit suicide every year. At the same time, it is child suicide, according to experts, is what can be avoided. After all, children, unlike adults, do not make the decision to die right now. They hatch their idea for some time, and this is not even just one day. The decision to commit suicide can take weeks or even years to mature. All this time, the minor gives adults the opportunity to restrain him from this step: he signals that he feels bad, shows that he has lost interest in life. And you need to very carefully observe your child and listen to him in order to understand what exactly he is trying to convey to you.
Indicating a decision to commit suicide
A child who has made a decision to commit suicide indirectly betrays him with a number of characteristic signs. So, for example, in his speech more and more often phrases begin to appear, such as: "I will not bother anyone anymore," "Soon you will be able to take a break from me," etc. Also, parents should be wary of too frivolous statements about death, for example, "Death is just a side of life", etc. Modern teenagers very often leave such messages on social networks.
On a non-verbal level, the actions of a teenager speak of a terrible decision. So, if he started giving away his things free of charge, incl. and very dear and memorable to his heart, stopped paying attention to his appearance, lost interest in his previously favorite hobbies, distanced himself from family and friends, shows indifference to the world around him and often retires, this may indicate that the teenager is ready to part with life.
What to do
Naturally, those parents who observe such signs have questions. And the main one is what to do. Psychologists, however, assure that it is still possible to save a child. The main thing is to start acting correctly. So, a child can tell his parents about his problems only if he trusts them. Therefore, first of all, it is necessary to build a trusting relationship with your child. Give up criticism for a while. You only have to support him in this difficult period of life. Listen carefully to the child, because this is the key to the solution - you can understand the problem that prevents children from living.
Don't underestimate or belittle the child's grievances and complaints. After all, they are very, very serious for him. It is necessary to establish maximum contact with him so that your child shares everything, speaks out, and he feels better. In addition, as an adult, you can help him make the decision to get out of this situation without such drastic steps as suicide.
Psychologists recommend not to hide your head in the sand, hoping that everything will pass by itself. You can ask the child directly if he is thinking about committing suicide. You definitely won't do any harm with such a question. But you will get a chance to speak out all the thoughts that disturb the teenager.
Parents should definitely support their child. Even if it seems to them that he is wrong. It doesn't matter at the moment. What is important is that he needs his loved ones, and without their support he cannot imagine how to live on.
Try to focus on the positive aspects of life. Take your child on vacation to where he has long dreamed of, discuss his dreams with him, perhaps he dreams of doing aircraft construction or ballroom dancing, and you recorded him in karate and embroidery.
Be sure to consult a professional psychologist. But don't present it as if the child is crazy. Preliminarily talk to him that you would like to go to a psychologist in order to understand how to help him. Don't forget that a teenager is a mature personality with interests and desires. At the same time, he has a too exaggerated attitude to various events and can be seriously offended if it is wrong to offer him the advice of a specialist.
It will take patience and all your love to save a child from suicide. Be sure to give your child all your attention until you stabilize the situation and see that life is getting better. Otherwise, the result may be irreparable.
