Simply listen. Be open and willing to hear what the at-risk teen has to say. Asking open ended questions can help move the conversation along. lt is important to avoid giving advice, making judgements, and offering your solution for the problern.

Don't give up if the teen tries to shrug you off. Many times young people need time to realize that your concem is genuine before they'll open up and talk about how they feel. Listen for the feelings behind the. words. Be alert for phrases like "l'd rather die than..." or "Doesn't it ever get better?" or "Things would be better off if l weren't around."

Once you determine there is the risk of suicide, ASK DIRECTLY "Are you having thoughts of suicide?" This will NOT put the idea in their head, their signals have already alerted you. Asking this difficult question will open the door for them to talk and will give you

Assess the Immediate Risk

If a teen admits their thoughts of suicide, the answer will no doubt be unsettling. It is critical that you remain calm and non-judgmental. Treat their feelings with genuine concern, take them seriously, and be open to hearing them out.

Try to determine the magnitude of their suicide plan; how, when, and where they plan to attempt suicide. The more lethal and available the means, and the more specific the time frame, the greater the risk. Determine the risk by assessing these factors:

Lethality + Availability + Time Frame = RISK

Who Can Help You Help a Troubled Teen

If the youth isn't open to talking with you about their feelings, try to help them identify someone they can talk with. An aunt, uncle, grandparent, neighbor, pastor, friend, school counselor, therapist, anybody that could help them feel comfortable and safe talking about their feelings of anguish & despair.

Young people often don't realize how available help can be. There are several crisis hotlines in the mid- Missouri area that provide confidential support, intervention, and referrals:

KUTO Crisis Helpline: 1.888.644.5886 (KUTO)
youth staffed every day after 4pm

Life Crisis Service: 314.647.HELP (4357)
adult staffed 24 hour hotline

BHR Crisis HotUne: 1.800.881.4760
mental health crisis services

Hospitals providing youth psychiatric services:

Hyland Behavioral Health Systems
314.525.7200 or 1.800.525.2032

St. John's Mercy Medical Center
Counseling 314.569.6565

St. Vincent's Mental Health Services
St. Louis 314.531.2183 Bridgeton 314.344.7224