If your child is being bullied and talking about suicide, you need clear next steps fast. Get parent-focused guidance to help you recognize risk, respond calmly, and decide what to do right now.
Start with what your child has said or shown recently so we can help you understand urgency, how to respond, and what support may be needed next.
Bullying can deeply affect a child or teen’s sense of safety, belonging, and hope. If your child says they want to disappear, not wake up, or die after being bullied, it is important to respond with calm, direct support and not assume they are being dramatic. Parents often search for help because they are unsure whether this is a passing statement, a sign of depression, or an immediate crisis. This page is designed to help you sort through those concerns and take the next right step.
Your child may say things like “It will never stop,” “Nobody cares,” or “I can’t do this anymore.” These statements can signal that bullying is affecting their ability to see a way forward.
A child who suddenly avoids friends, activities, school, or devices may be overwhelmed by bullying, shame, or fear. Pulling away can also happen alongside depression and suicidal ideation.
Even indirect comments such as wishing they could disappear should be taken seriously, especially if bullying at school or online is ongoing.
Use clear, calm language: “Are you thinking about hurting yourself?” Asking does not put the idea in their head. If the answer is yes, stay with your child and do not leave them alone.
If there is any concern about self-harm or suicide, secure medications, sharp objects, cords, ropes, and firearms. Immediate safety steps matter while you seek support.
If your child has a plan, method, timing, or has made an attempt, call or text 988 in the U.S. for immediate support, or go to the nearest emergency room. If there is immediate danger, call 911.
Tell your child you believe them, you are glad they told you, and they do not have to handle this alone. Children often fear they will be blamed, dismissed, or sent back into the same situation without help.
Support is not only about stopping bullying at school. Your child may also need a mental health evaluation, crisis support, and a plan for what to do when suicidal thoughts spike.
Keep records of bullying incidents, messages, injuries, attendance changes, and emotional impact. Clear documentation can help when requesting school action and safety accommodations.
Start with calm, direct support: “I’m really glad you told me. I believe you. You are not in trouble. I’m here with you.” Then ask clearly whether they are thinking about hurting themselves or ending their life. Avoid minimizing the bullying or rushing into problem-solving before you understand their level of risk.
You may notice suicidal comments appearing after school, after online harassment, or after specific bullying incidents. Other signs include dread about school, panic, shame, isolation, sleep changes, depression, and statements that life will not get better. Even if bullying is not the only factor, the combination should be taken seriously.
Yes, but first focus on immediate safety if your child may harm themselves. If there is urgent risk, contact 988, emergency services, or go to the ER. Once your child is safe, notify the school, document what happened, and request a prompt plan to address bullying, supervision, and your child’s emotional safety.
Treat it as an emergency if your child has talked about wanting to die or kill themselves, mentioned a plan, method, or timing, cannot commit to staying safe, appears intoxicated or highly agitated, or has made an attempt. In the U.S., call or text 988 for immediate support, call 911 if there is immediate danger, or go to the nearest emergency room.
Answer a few questions about the bullying, what your child has said, and what is happening right now. You’ll get focused guidance to help you respond, support safety, and decide on next steps.
Answer a Few QuestionsExplore more assessments in this topic group.
See related assessments across this category.
Find more parenting assessments by category and topic.
Bullying And Self-Harm
Bullying And Self-Harm
Bullying And Self-Harm
Bullying And Self-Harm