Supporting Teen Mental Health During
National Suicide Prevention Month
For many young people, the teenage years can feel overwhelming. Between school stress, social media, friendships, and figuring out who they are, it’s easy for tweens and teens to feel like the weight of the world is on their shoulders. For some, these struggles can grow into something much heavier; sometimes even leading to thoughts of suicide.
That’s why this month matters so much. It gives us the chance to shine a light on tween and teen mental health, break down the stigma, and talk openly about how to prevent suicide.
Teen Suicide by the Numbers
Suicide is the second leading cause of death for people ages 10–14, and the third leading cause for those 15–24. The numbers from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) are difficult to read, but they are also a call to action:
- In 2023, 9% of high school students attempted suicide at least once in the past year. Female students (13%) were more than twice as likely as male students (6%) to attempt.
- LGBTQ+ tweens and teens reported especially high risks: over 60% said they felt persistently sad or hopeless, and 1 in 5 attempted suicide.
- Suicide rates for Black youth have risen 28% since 2019, and increases were also seen among Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander teens.
- On a hopeful note, suicide rates among youth ages 15–24 dropped 10% from 2021 to 2022. Progress is possible,but we have so much more to do.
- Behind every number is a real person with hopes, fears, and dreams. That’s why it’s so important to keep talking about this.
What Puts Teens at Risk and What Helps Protect Them
Suicide is complex, and it’s rarely caused by just one thing. For tweens and teens, pressures like bullying, family struggles, or academic stress can combine with other risk factors.
Risk factors for teen suicide may include:
- Depression, anxiety, or other mental health struggles
- Bullying or cyberbullying, which can cause deep isolation and shame
- A lack of connection or support from friends, family, or school
- Major life changes, loss, or trauma
Protective factors that reduce risk:
- Having strong, supportive relationships with family, friends, or mentors
- Access to mental health resources at school or in the community
- Feeling like they belong in a safe, inclusive environment
- Learning healthy coping skills and building resilience
The good news? We can all help strengthen those protective factors in the lives of tweens and teens around us.
How to Support a Teen Who Might Be Struggling
Sometimes, the hardest part is knowing what to say or do. But supporting a tween or teen’s mental health doesn’t mean you have to have all the answers, it means showing up.
1. Start the conversation
Don’t be afraid to ask: “How are you really doing?” Talking about suicide won’t “put the idea” in someone’s head, it can actually save a life by giving them space to share what they’re feeling.
2. Know the warning signs
Some red flags include:
- Withdrawing from friends, activities, or hobbies
- Dramatic mood swings or ongoing sadness
- A drop in grades or focus at school
- Risky behaviors, substance use, or reckless actions
- Talking about hopelessness or feeling like a burden
- Giving away belongings that matter to them
3. Offer support and help connect them to resources
Listen without judgment. Reassure them they aren’t alone. Encourage them to talk with a counselor, doctor, or another trusted adult and offer to go with them if that feels helpful.
4. Build safe and connected environments
Schools and communities can make a huge difference by promoting kindness, inclusion, and anti-bullying initiatives. When tweens and teens feel connected, supported, and safe, they’re less likely to struggle in silence.
5. Empower teens to support each other
Peers often notice changes first. Encourage tweens and teens to check in with friends and remind each other: it’s okay to not be okay, and it’s okay to ask for help.
Why National Suicide Prevention Month Matters
Every September, we get the chance to put mental health in the spotlight, push back against stigma, and remind tweens and teens that their lives matter. The 10% drop in youth suicide rates shows progress is possible, but the disparities also remind us we must keep fighting for every young person.
This month isn’t just about statistics. It’s about real lives. It’s about making sure every youth knows there are people who care, who will listen, and who want them here tomorrow.
Additional Suicide Prevention Resources for Teens and Families
Hope is real, and help is always available.
Crisis Hotlines & Text Support
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Available 24/7 by call, text, or chat with trained crisis counselors. Completely free and confidential.
- Crisis Text Line – Confidential, free text support for teens and others in crisis. Text HOME to 741741 anytime.
- STOMP Out Bullying HelpChat Crisis Line – A free and confidential online chat that helps youth ages 13–24 with issues like bullying, cyberbullying, and emotional distress.
- 🕒 Hours: Tue- Wed 7-11 PM EST
- 🌐 stompoutbullying.org/helpchat
Evidence-Based Prevention & Research Tools
- NIMH (National Institute of Mental Health) – Offers resources on warning signs, treatments, prevention strategies, and the latest research in suicide prevention.
- CDC’s Suicide Prevention Resource for Action – A guide for communities and schools to help plan and implement evidence-based suicide prevention strategies.
This month, and every month, let’s stand up for tweens and teens. Let’s listen with compassion, talk openly about mental health, and make sure no one feels alone. Together, we can save lives.
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