Some statistics regarding suicide in the United States might surprise you. For example:

While it is often hard to understand why someone might try to kill themselves, suicidal people generally do not actually want to die. Instead, suicide is an attempt to gain control over a situation that can feel hopeless or impossible.

·        Do not be afraid to talk to your child about this subject. Talking can be a relief to a person at risk.

·        Know the warning signs of teen suicide.

·        Do not be afraid to ask, "Do you sometimes feel so bad you think of suicide?"

·        Utilize school and community resources.

·        Do not allow an at-risk child to be alone.

·        Take immediate action: Contact a professional if you feel a child is at-risk.

The most important thing you can do for your child or adolescent is to simply listen to them. They need to know that someone cares and that someone will listen. Too often when we talk with children we find ourselves getting caught up in having to help them resolve their problems by giving advice. This is not what is needed when they are already feeling hopeless.

The most important long-term thing you can do is to link the suicidal person with a network of professional support that will result in addressing the underlying cause.

please contact the Youth Commission at 781-455-7518 or by e-mail.