My kid said “I don’t want to be here anymore”

Take the statement seriously and ask directly whether they are thinking about suicide. Asking does not increase suicidal thoughts or behavior. Ask them:

“When you say you don’t want to be here, are you thinking about ending your life?”

Listen without arguing or minimizing, stay with them while obtaining help, and reduce access to firearms, medications, and other potentially lethal means when you can do so safely. National Institute of Mental Health

In the United States, call or text 988 for immediate crisis guidance, including when you are worried about your child. If there is an attempt, serious injury, immediate danger, or you cannot keep them safe, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department. Do not wait for a routine therapy appointment. National Institute of Mental Health

Need immediate support? In the United States, call or text 988 for suicide or mental health crisis support. For a life-threatening emergency, call 911. Do not wait for a routine appointment or a response through this website. National Institute of Mental Health.

This post provides general information and is not a crisis service. For information about my work outside of emergencies, read about my background and clinical supervision and review the support I offer children and teens. Please use the crisis resources on the bottom of this page for immediate help.