Talking about suicide is never easy, but for parents and caregivers, it’s a conversation that can make all the difference.
On this page, you’ll find crucial resources to help you navigate these difficult discussions and recognize warning signs in the young people you care for. Whether you’re seeking guidance on how to start the conversation or looking for support services, the tools here are designed to empower you to take action.
While it may be challenging to address, opening up about suicide could potentially save a life and provide the support your loved one needs.
EDUCATE YOURSELF
The best thing you can do is to learn more about it. Educate yourself and take action in your community so that together we can end the silence around addressing our mental health.
Learn the signs of suicide ideation and what to look out for, how to start a conversation, and the local resources that you can use to help save a life.
Download and print this YES’ Suicide Prevention Resource Guide to learn more.
LOOK OUT FOR OTHERS
Most of the people suffering from poor mental health do not reach out for help for fear of being judged or misunderstood. So, we need to look out for others and learn how to approach someone when we are worried about them. We need to help people feel heard and understood.
In YES’ “Ask the Question” video, hear from a mother, sister, student, and counselor on why it’s important to look out for others and ask the question.
LEARN HOW TO HAVE A CONVERSATION ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH
One of the most common questions we get at YES is, “How do I talk to my child about mental health?” So, we asked local middle and high school students how they would like their parents to approach the conversation and what they would like them to know.
YES’ educational film “Talk to Me” uses those replies and includes straightforward tips from a YES Behavioral Health Support Specialist to help parents and adults feel more comfortable planning these difficult conversations with youth.
OTHER RESOURCES
Whether you’re concerned about someone you know or are yourself having suicidal thoughts, dial 988 to reach the National Suicide and Crisis Line.
Call, text, or chat with local Crisis Connections, offering teen-specific connections through Teen Link.
Watch a Forefront Suicide Prevention Training.
Read about YES’ past Conversation Addressing Youth Suicide with special guest Kevin Hines.
YES IS CURRENTLY ACCEPTION NEW CLIENTS
Mental health and substance use assessments are available at YES in Bellevue on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays from 9 AM to 4 PM on a first-come, first-served basis. Limited appointments are available, so if capacity is reached, clients are encouraged to return another day or schedule an assessment while there.
Receiving an assessment is the first step to scheduling agency-based services, including therapy, family counseling, psychiatric care, and group programs. Assessments take 2-3 hours and are offered in both English and Spanish. Please bring your insurance card, photo ID, and any relevant paperwork.
For other languages or for children under six, please call 425-747-4937 to schedule an assessment.