Resources for Suicide Prevention for Kids and Teens
I need help
If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, tell someone right away. You can:
- Call 911 or go to the Emergency Department at Children’s Mercy. We are here to help you.
- Talk to someone, such as a friend, family member, counselor or teacher.
- Call the suicide prevention lifeline at (800) 273-8255 or text HOME to 741741. The Lifeline is always open and is free and confidential.
Remember, you are not alone. There is always someone who cares.
I want to help someone else
If you’re worried about a friend, family member or classmate, you can help by:
- Staying with them when they are in crisis.
- Calling the suicide prevention lifeline on their behalf.
- Going with them to talk to a trusted adult.
- Helping them move to a safe location.
- Standing up against bullying. Be an advocate for others who are struggling.
What are the warning signs of suicide?
Suicide is preventable. Talking to someone about suicide will not make them more likely to act—in fact, research shows that providing support and talking about suicide is helpful to people in crisis.
Watch for these signs and tell a trusted adult if you have concerns:
- Often talking or writing about death, dying, or suicide.
- Making comments about being hopeless, helpless, or worthless.
- Expressions of having no reason for living; no sense of purpose in life; saying things like "It would be better if I wasn't here" or "I want out."
- Increased alcohol and/or drug misuse.
- Withdrawal from friends, family and community.
- Detaching themselves from their daily activities; not wanting to do things that brought them joy.
- Reckless behavior or more risky activities, seemingly without thinking.
- Dramatic mood changes or not acting like their usual self.
- Talking about feeling trapped or being a burden to others.
Take action
If you or someone you know is making suicidal threats or actions, immediately call 911 or take the person to the nearest emergency room.
The Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and is free and confidential. Call (800) 273-TALK (8255). En Español: (888) 628-9454.
Additional resources are available below.
Resources
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 24/7: (800) 273-TALK (8255)
- Nacional de Prevención del Suicidio 24/7: (888) 628-9454
- Suicide Prevention Crisis Textline 24/7: Text HOME to 741741
- TTY Suicide Prevention Lifeline for deaf and hard of hearing 24/7: Dial 711, then 1-800-273-8255
Resources for LGBTQ+ people
- The Trevor Project for LGBTQ+ Youth 24/7: (866) 488-7386
- Trevor Textline 24/7: Text START to 678678
- Trans Lifeline 24/7: (877) 565-8860
Resources for parents and caregivers
- National Parent Helpline: (855) 4 A PARENT ((855) 427-2736)
- NAMI Missouri Helpline: (800) 374-2138
A non-emergency line that provides information on local services and resources for people with mental health concerns. Available: Monday to Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Your Visit Home
- Family Support and Resources
- Aftercare Program
- Art Therapy
- Care Management and Coordination
- Child and Family Therapy
- Child Life
- Coping and Relaxation Tips
- Facility Dog Program
- Family Support Fund
- Health Information and Medical Records
- Home Care
- Hospital-Based School
- Interpreters and Sign Language
- In the Community
- Kreamer Resource Center for Families
- Library Services
- Music Therapy
- Nurse Advice Line
- Palliative Care
- Parent Exercise Room
- Patient Advocates and Sharing Your Feedback
- Patient and Family Activities
- Patient Family Advisory Councils
- Resources for Suicide Prevention for Kids and Teens
- Ronald McDonald House and Family Room
- Social Work
- Spiritual Services
- Support Groups and Programs
- Teen Boards
- Transition to Adulthood
- What to Expect