Suicide and teenagers
This page discusses youth suicide. If your teen is in immediate danger or is going to act on suicidal thoughts, call 000 if you live in Australia. A number of crisis support services are also there for you – visit our urgent help page.
There are a number of things that you can try to reduce the likelihood of suicide. If you'd like to understand more about suicide, you can start by reading our fact sheet on suicide and teenagers.
Otherwise, see below for more information about the potential warning signs and triggers of youth suicide, how to talk to your teen about suicide and self-harm, and what you can do if you’re worried your teenager may be thinking about ending their life.
Frequently asked questions about suicide and teenagers
Suicidal thoughts can occur during adolescence, especially during times of intense stress, overwhelm, or mental health struggles. They're a signal that your teen needs support and shouldn't be dismissed. If your teen’s thoughts are persistent or detailed, it’s important to seek help immediately.
Even if you’re not sure how serious your teen is being, always take any mention of suicidal thoughts seriously and seek professional help.
A suicide safety plan is a personalised, written plan that helps teens recognise warning signs and provides specific coping strategies and support contacts during a crisis. It includes identifying triggers, helpful coping techniques, trusted people or services to contact, and ways to make their environment safer. Mental health professionals can help you and your teen develop an effective safety plan.
Read more about creating a suicide safety plan with your teen.
Depression and suicidal thoughts can be connected. However, not all teens with depression have suicidal thoughts, and suicidal thoughts can occur without depression. Getting professional help as early as possible can help your teen access effective treatments and help them develop healthier coping strategies.
Warning behaviours can include things like giving away prized possessions, withdrawing from friends and activities, engaging in reckless behaviours, or saying they're a burden. You might notice them researching suicide methods, writing about death, or changes in sleep, appetite, or academic performance.
It is important to note that self-harming behaviours do not always mean your teen is thinking about suicide. If your teen is self-harming or something feels concerning, it is important to reach out and get professional help for yourself and your teen.
Read this guide to understand more about suicide and teenagers.
Warning signs that your teen might be suicidal include direct signals like talking about wanting to die or feeling trapped, and indirect signs like mood changes, withdrawing from family, or declining school performance. You might notice changes in eating or sleeping, loss of interest in activities, or giving away belongings. These signs indicate your teen needs your support. Read more about warning signs of suicide in teens and how to help them.
Yes, there are several 24/7 services that are free, confidential, and staffed by trained counsellors:
Lifeline (13 11 14) for crisis support.
Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800) for young people up to 25.
Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636) for depression and suicide prevention.
Suicide Call Back Service (1300 659 467) for anyone affected by suicide.