What can parents do amid the rising number of children with suicidal thoughts?

Some youth may hesitate to seek help if it requires parental consent as they fear how their parents may react. PHOTO: ST FILE
New: Gift this subscriber-only story to your friends and family

SINGAPORE – Parents who find out their child is dealing with suicidal thoughts often grapple with intense emotions like guilt and anxiety, said counsellors and social workers.

Dr Geraldine Tan, a psychologist from The Therapy Room, said parents should try to stay calm and listen actively to their child, while not downplaying the situation or assuming that their child is just seeking attention.

Already a subscriber? 

Read the full story and more at $9.90/month

Get exclusive reports and insights with more than 500 subscriber-only articles every month

Unlock these benefits

  • All subscriber-only content on ST app and straitstimes.com

  • Easy access any time via ST app on 1 mobile device

  • E-paper with 2-week archive so you won't miss out on content that matters to you

Join ST's WhatsApp Channel and get the latest news and must-reads.