Equipping Parents: Suicide Prevention Tools and Resources for Helping Suicidal Teens

As a parent, it's natural to feel overwhelmed and unsure when your child is facing suicidal thoughts, especially when perfectionism and masking are involved. In this episode, we delve into these critical issues, offering valuable insights into how the pressure to be perfect can impact your child's well-being and the role that comparisons and unrealistic expectations play in their struggles. Our goal is to provide you with practical tools and actionable steps to better understand and support your teen. Whether you're grappling with how to handle your child’s mental health issues or seeking ways to create a more supportive environment, this episode is for you.In this episode, therapist Tiffany Herlin, LCSW, along with Clinical Directors and therapists Allison Jenkins, LCSW, and Reggie Wilson, LCSW, from OASIS Ascent, will discuss:Perfectionism and Masking: Discover how the pressure to meet unrealistic standards can lead to depression, anxiety, and self-destructive behaviors in teens, and learn how to identify and address these issues in your child.Impact of Comparison: Learn about the negative effects of comparing your child to their siblings and how it can affect their self-worth and mental health.Normalizing Failure: Understand why it’s essential to normalize failure as a part of growth and how this mindset can alleviate the pressure on your teen.Immediate Actions for Crisis: Get guidance on when to seek professional help, including the role of emergency rooms and outpatient resources in handling suicidal ideation.Creating a Safe Environment: Find out how to create a supportive environment that encourages open communication and reassures your teen that their feelings are taken seriously, even if they’re seeking attention.If you are a parent of a teen who is experiencing a mental health crisis, we are here to help. OASIS Ascent provides a safe, structured, and therapeutic environment where teens can stabilize and begin their journey toward healing. With a team of experienced therapists and clinical staff, we offer individualized care designed to address the unique needs of each teen. To learn more about how you can help your child, call us at 855-701-2721.