Journal Riders Blog

 No one wants to get the call that their child is in the emergency room! Results from a study in 2019 revealed that 18.8% of high school students seriously considered suicide, and 8.9% actually attempted suicide. Many times, mental health emergencies can happen without warning. The most important thing you, as a parent, can do is remain calm and supportive. What is a  mental health toolkit? A mental health toolkit is a compilation of information to calm you down in a mental health crisis situation. It is designed to teach you how to ask important questions, what to do, and what to expect. The mental health crisis toolkit is typically handed to you at the hospital. The mental health toolkit also teaches you how to involve others in supporting your child and all other youth. What should you include in your mental health crisis plan? Having a plan is critical — it can be the difference between having control over your own or your child’s mental health and an emergency si...

 There are a number of ways you can help a suicidal teen and you can refer to different resources for help including a behavioral health toolkit. Here is a closer look at suicide in teens, recognizing signs and what to do to help. Helping a teen Get them professional help - If you have someone who is suicidal you need to take it seriously and get them professional help. You can look at online websites, charities, and helplines, use a mental health crisis toolkit, or just take them to a family doctor and go from there. Make sure you follow through on treatment - Whatever treatment or routine or medication the professional gives, make sure they follow it. Make sure they take their pills and look for side effects. It can take time and trying different options before the right fit is found so you have to be patient with it. Be more proactive as you offer help - You might need to be specific and proactive with your support. Rather than something vague like call me if you need somet...