If your teen is self-harming, has self-harmed recently, or you’re afraid it could happen soon, get clear next steps for safety, what to say, and when to seek emergency help.
Start with what is happening right now so you can get parent-focused crisis response guidance, including how to keep your teen safe after self-harm and when to call 911 or get immediate help.
Start by focusing on immediate safety. If there is severe bleeding, loss of consciousness, trouble breathing, signs of overdose, a suicide attempt, or your teen cannot stay safe, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room now. If the injury is not life-threatening, stay calm, remain with your teen, remove or secure sharp objects, medications, cords, and other means if possible, and seek urgent professional support. Use a steady, nonjudgmental tone. You do not need to solve everything in one conversation—your first job is to reduce danger and help your teen get the right level of care.
Take a breath, lower your voice, and avoid panic, threats, or punishment. A calm response can help reduce escalation and make it easier for your teen to accept help.
Check for injuries, provide basic first aid if appropriate, and decide whether emergency care is needed. Keep your teen near you if you are concerned they may self-harm again soon.
Try: “I’m glad you’re with me,” “I want to help keep you safe,” and “We can get through the next step together.” Avoid shaming, interrogating, or demanding promises they may not be able to keep.
Call emergency services for severe bleeding, deep wounds, overdose, unconsciousness, seizures, breathing problems, or any situation that looks life-threatening.
If your teen says they want to die, has a suicide plan, cannot agree to stay safe, or you believe they may act soon, seek immediate crisis support or emergency evaluation.
If you need immediate help deciding what to do, contact 988 in the U.S. for urgent mental health support. Crisis counselors can help parents think through next steps and safety planning.
Lock up or remove sharp objects, medications, alcohol, ropes, cords, and other items your teen could use to hurt themselves, especially during high-risk periods.
Stay closer than usual, check in often, and avoid leaving your teen alone if risk feels elevated. Ask another trusted adult to help if you need support.
Contact your teen’s pediatrician, therapist, psychiatrist, school counselor, or a local crisis service as soon as possible. Ongoing care matters even if the immediate crisis has passed.
Parents often worry about saying the wrong thing. Keep it simple, caring, and direct: “I’m really glad you told me,” “You’re not in trouble,” “I’m concerned about your safety,” and “We’re going to get help together.” It is okay to ask clearly whether they were trying to die or if they think they might hurt themselves again. Asking does not put the idea in their head. It helps you understand urgency and choose the safest next step.
First, assess immediate danger. If there is severe injury, overdose, unconsciousness, or suicide risk that cannot be safely managed at home, call 911 or go to the ER. If the situation is not life-threatening, stay with your teen, secure dangerous items, use a calm tone, and contact urgent mental health support.
Call 911 for severe bleeding, deep wounds, overdose, breathing problems, loss of consciousness, seizures, or if your teen is at imminent risk of suicide and cannot be kept safe. If you are unsure, it is appropriate to seek emergency guidance immediately.
Lead with care and safety: “I’m glad you told me,” “I’m here with you,” and “I want to help keep you safe.” Avoid anger, punishment, or statements that increase shame. Ask direct but calm questions about injuries, suicidal thoughts, and what they need right now.
Increase supervision, remove or lock up items they could use to self-harm, and arrange prompt professional follow-up. If risk remains high, do not leave them alone. A safety plan with a clinician is often an important next step.
Yes. In the U.S., parents can call or text 988 for immediate mental health crisis support and guidance. If there is a life-threatening emergency, call 911 instead.
Answer a few questions to understand urgency, what steps to take now, how to respond calmly, and where to get immediate help if your teen may not be safe.
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