Navigating difficult news or challenging events can be overwhelming for young people, (and their families and in some cases their wider community) but with the right support and care, it is possible to help them feel safe, resilient, and capable of managing their emotions. By engaging openly and empathetically, we empower the next generation to face life’s challenges with strength and confidence. Remember, you are not alone.
- Ask open-ended questions like, “What have you heard?” or “How do you feel about this?”
- Give them time to express their thoughts and feelings.
2. Tailor the Conversation:
- Young Children: Use simple, factual explanations. Reassure them they are safe.
- Older Children/Teens: Provide more context and address their complex questions honestly.
3. Be Honest but Reassuring:
- Share the truth while highlighting efforts to improve the situation.
- Use stories of resilience and compassion to provide hope.
4. Monitor Media Exposure:
- Limit their exposure to distressing news and social media.
- Encourage breaks and engaging in comforting activities.
5. Encourage Emotional Expression:
- Suggest ways to express feelings, like talking, journaling, drawing, or playing music.
- Normalise emotions like fear, sadness, or anger, acknowledge these emotions like happiness and excitement come and go. We don’t need to stay stuck in an emotion.
6. Promote a Sense of Agency:
- Show them how small acts of kindness can make a difference.
- Encourage activities that help them feel empowered.
7. Be a Role Model:
- Demonstrate healthy coping mechanisms.
- Talk about your own feelings and show it’s okay to seek support.
- Support device and tech free periods
8. Be Prepared for Long-Term Support:
- Check in regularly on their feelings.
- Offer ongoing support through conversations, activities, or professional help.
9. Seek Professional Help When Needed:
- If you notice ongoing distress or changes in behaviour, consult a counsellor or psychologist.
- Remember to take care of yourself too. Support people need support too!
Discussing Suicide
1. Open Conversations:
- Talking about suicide does not increase its likelihood.
- Create a safe environment for questions and clarification.
2. Young Children:
- Use straightforward, age-appropriate language.
- Explain emotional pain and that help is available.
3. Teens:
- Ask what they already know and open lines of communication.
- Discuss mental health openly and honestly.
Example of Age-Appropriate Language:
- Young Children: “Sometimes, people feel very, very sad or hurt inside, and they might think about ending their own life. This is called suicide. It’s important to know that there are always people who can help when someone feels this way, and there are ways to feel better.”
- Teens: “Suicide is when someone decides to end their own life because they feel overwhelmed by their emotions. It’s a serious issue but talking about it can help. If you or someone you know ever feels this way, it’s important to reach out for help. There are many people and resources available to support you.”
If you don’t feel well-equipped to have the conversation, or if your own distress is making it too difficult, that’s okay. You and your teen child can seek professional advice.
DOLLY’S DREAM SUPPORT SERVICES, PROGRAMS & RESOURCES:
- Dolly’s Dream Support Line: Free, confidential 24-hour telephone and webchat service with qualified counsellors available to help by calling 0488 881 033.
- Beacon Cyber Safety app: Free app providing practical resources to help families navigate children’s technology use.
- Dolly’s Dream Parent Hub: Trusted information about online safety and bullying.
- Dolly’s Dream School Workshops: Online safety and anti-bullying workshops for students, parents, teachers, and the community.
- Mental Health & First Aid Training: Training to help communities cope with mental health issues.
- Report online harm to the eSafety Commissioner here
