Parents

Parents hugging the daughter who just graduated from collegeSending a child off to college can be challenging for many parents, supervising adults, and family members. This is often a new transition that involves letting go and hoping for the child’s academic and professional success. It is important for parents and supervising adults to recognize the warning signs of suicide among a young adult, and to be able to listen to and talk openly with them. This will reduce stigma and provide an opportunity to offer emotional support and guidance.

If you believe your child may be at risk, share with them these important resources for free crisis support, available 24/7:

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988, or chat on their website
Crisis Text Line: Text: “GOT5U” to 741-741

Starting the Conversation: College and Your Mental Health provides useful information for parents about the steps needed to support students and start conversations about mental health.