What Parents Need to Know About Child and Teen Depression and Suicide

Depression is one of the most common mental health challenges affecting children and teens today. According to the CDC, nearly one in five young people experiences a mental health concern each year. When depression goes unnoticed or untreated, it can interfere with a child’s relationships, academic performance, and overall well-being. The encouraging news is that with early recognition and the right support, most children and teens can heal, grow, and thrive.

In many cases, depression is a sign that a young person is struggling to cope with something overwhelming in their life. Children and teens are still developing the emotional skills needed to manage stress, anxiety, academic pressure, and social or family conflict. Compounding these challenges, research has also identified a troubling link between increased technology use—particularly after 8 p.m. and in private spaces like bedrooms or bathrooms—and higher rates of depression and suicide among young people.

As a mental health provider, one of the most important conversations I have with parents centers on recognizing early warning signs of depression and addressing concerns related to self-harm or suicidal thoughts. Depression doesn’t always look like sadness, especially in children. It can appear as irritability, withdrawal, behavioral changes, or a sudden decline in school performance.

If you’re noticing changes in your child—or even if something just doesn’t feel right—don’t wait. Trust your instincts and seek support early. In the sections that follow, you’ll learn how to recognize the warning signs of depression and suicidal ideation in children and teens, along with practical guidance on accessing mental health resources, counseling, and support. Becoming informed is a powerful first step—and it may help you get your child the care they need to feel safe, supported, and hopeful again.

Warning Signs of Depression in Children and Teens

Every child is different, but here are some key signs that may indicate your child or teen is struggling:

Emotional Signs

• Persistent sadness, tearfulness, or hopelessness

• Irritability or anger outbursts that seem “out of the blue”

• Expressions of worthlessness or guilt

• Negative self-talk (“I can’t do anything right”)

• Loss of interest or enjoyment in activities they used to love

Behavioral Changes

• Withdrawing from friends or family

• Declining grades or loss of motivation at school

• Changes in sleep (too much or too little)

• Changes in appetite or weight

• Fatigue or lack of energy

Cognitive and Physical Symptoms

• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

• Frequent complaints of headaches or stomachaches without a medical cause

• Neglecting personal appearance or hygiene

Understanding Suicidal Ideation: Warning Signs and Red Flags

Suicidal thoughts in children and teens can be frightening for parents, but it’s crucial to remember: talking about suicide does not cause it — it opens the door for help and safety.

Parents will want to ask about:

1. The child’s intention – do they really want to harm themselves, or are they just struggling to express how angry/depressed they are feeling in the moment?

2. Any plans – have they thought of how they would harm themselves?

3. Are there any means – do they have anything they can use to follow through on those plans (weapons, medication, sharps like razors, scissors, etc.)

Here are some important warning signs and red flags to watch for as well:

Verbal Cues

• Talking or writing about death, dying, or wanting to disappear

• Statements like:

• “I wish I wasn’t here.”

• “Everyone would be better off without me.”

• “I just want it all to stop.”

• Expressing feelings of hopelessness or being a burden

Behavioral Red Flags

• Giving away personal belongings or saying “goodbye”

• Sudden calmness or extreme happiness after a period of distress (may indicate a young person has a plan and made the decision to act very soon)

• Sudden, drastic changes in hair styles or clothing and appearance

• Increased use of alcohol or drugs

• Risk-taking behaviors or self-harm (cutting, burning, etc.)

• Searching online for methods of suicide or acquiring means (medication, weapons)

Emotional and Situational Triggers

• A recent breakup or loss (friendship, pet, family member)

• Online or in person harassment, bullying, or assault

• Major transitions such as changing schools or family stress (divorce, financial strain)

• Situations that may cause significant anxiety or disappointment (low test grade, being kicked off of a sports team, teen pregnancy, fearing a parent’s reaction etc.)

• Social isolation or feeling excluded/rejected by peers

What Parents Can Do to Prevent a Suicide Attempt

If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s essential to take them seriously and act immediately.

1. Start the Conversation

Gently express your concern:

“I’ve noticed you’ve been really down lately and saying things like you don’t want to be here. That worries me. Can you tell me what’s been going on?”

Ask directly if your child is thinking about suicide. It may feel uncomfortable, but research shows that asking does not increase risk — it can save a life.

2. Remove Access to Lethal Means

If you suspect risk, secure or remove firearms, medications, belts/rope, and sharp objects from the home. This is one of the most effective steps to prevent suicide attempts.

3. Seek Professional Help Immediately

If you notice any of these serious warning signs, seek immediate help by calling 911, going to your nearest emergency department, or contacting the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988, available 24/7).

You can also contact your local Mental Health Authority (LMHA) in Texas for crisis services and ongoing support. (More on this discussed below.)

4. Follow Up and Stay Connected

After a crisis, ongoing connection and follow-up are key. Maintain open communication, schedule therapy appointments, and keep checking in. Let your child know they are not alone and that help is available.

How to Get Help for Your Child in Texas

Texas has a growing network of mental health resources for children and families. Here are some steps and options to explore:

1. Start with Your Child’s Pediatrician or School Counselor

Your pediatrician can rule out medical issues, screen for depression, and refer you to a licensed therapist or psychiatrist. School counselors can also connect families to school-based or community services.

2. Contact Your Local Mental Health Authority (LMHA)

Texas divides mental health services by region. Each LMHA provides assessment, crisis, and counseling services—often with sliding-scale fees. You can find your local center by visiting:

👉 https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/mental-health-substance-use/childrens-mental-health

3. Use 24/7 Crisis Resources

Be sure to save these numbers in your phone and place them somewhere visible (the fridge, a family command-center). Crisis lines are 24/7 and should be used immediately if you suspect suicidal thoughts or behaviors.

• 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for immediate emotional support.

• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained counselor.

• Texas Youth Helpline: Call or text 1-800-989-6884 for free, confidential support for youth and families.

4. Seek a Licensed Mental Health Professional

Katy Child Psychology Associates is committed to helping children and families by providing clients with individualized, compassionate, and expert care. We are here to provide children and teens with the most effective treatments and supports available. We also collaborate with pediatricians, schools, teachers, or other professionals to ensure our client receives coordinated care, based on each family's needs and preferences.

Because we specialize in working with children, our clinicians have developed a higher level of expertise than counselors who "see everyone". Our clinicians specialize in working with children and have mastered a wider range of targeted intervention skills. At KCPA, our clinicians are committed to utilizing intervention techniques that have been demonstrated by research studies to work, and we can select the best approach based on your child's unique characteristics.

If you need a caring and experienced, out-patient therapist, you can contact us by going to our website at katychildpsychology.com or by calling us at 281-829-1599.

Below are some additional regional mental‐health contacts for the West Houston / Harris & Fort Bend County area as well:

• The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD (Harris County – West Houston area)

  24-Hour Crisis & Access Line: 713-970-7000 (press Option 1)

  Intake/Main Phone: 713-970-7000 Address: 9401 Southwest Freeway, Houston, TX 77074 Region: Serves Harris County and provides mobile crisis outreach, assessments, outpatient care.

• Texana Center (serving Fort Bend County & surrounding)

  24-Hour Crisis Hotline: 1-800-633-5686

  Via the county behavioral health program: Fort Bend County Behavioral Health Services, phone: 281-238-3079 Address (Behavioral Health Services): 1517 Eugene Heimann Circle, Suite 400, Richmond, TX 77469

Tip for parents: If you live in Fort Bend County and are concerned about your child’s depression or suicidal ideation, use the crisis hotline above and ask specifically about youth/child mental-health services. When you call, mention: “I’m a parent living in [Harris / Fort Bend] County, I’m worried about my child (age X) who is showing signs of depression/suicidal ideation — can I talk with someone about youth mental-health services?”

You can also search for a child therapist or psychiatrist through directories like:

• Psychology Today’s Therapist Finder

• TherapyDen

• Texas Psychological Association Provider Directory

Look for professionals experienced in child and adolescent depression, CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), or family therapy.

A Final Word to Parents

If you’re worried about your child, trust your instincts — you know your child best. Depression is not a sign of “weakness” or “bad behavior”, and suicidal thoughts or self-injurious behaviors are not signs of “attention-seeking”. They are serious symptoms that deserve care and compassion. Depression is a treatable medical condition, and with early support, connection, and professional help, children and teens can — and do — recover.

You don’t have to navigate this alone. Reaching out for help is an act of strength — and the first step toward healing and hope for your family.