Reply to Teenage son just told me he is suicidal and depressed......

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Reply to "Teenage son just told me he is suicidal and depressed......"

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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]I work at a psych hospital and see people like this everyday. If you can take him to a psychiatrist today do it. If you can't then take him to the ER. Please take this seriously. He says in 2 years but since he has actual plans to kill himself you need to take it seriously and it's an emergency!!![/quote]

Pump the brakes a bit.  I've worked inpatient psych as well and while this kid is clearly asking for help, its not necessarily an "emergency!!!".  S/I with a vague plan 2 years out and no imminent threat to self or others- that's not inpatient criteria.  Especially with no failed outpatient.

OP- thank him for sharing something so personal and painful.  Let him know that you love him, you will never judge him, you want him to always tell you things like this, and ask him to agree to tell you if he ever feels imminently suicidal.  In short, have him contract for his own safety.  Tell him you think he should see a therapist and ask if he will agree to see someone.  Have him be an active participant in his therapy, even now.  If he won't agree to see a therapist, talk and LISTEN, find out his reservations, see if you can help him overcome them.  Call your insurance company or his primary care and ask for a referral to a therapist.  Get him to an appointment as soon as possible.

If he cannot contract for his own safety or he shows signs of imminently harming himself, take him to an ER or call the police.  [/quote]

This is good advice. He needs you.[b] I know a teenager committed to a psych institution and it is not a fun place to be - it also can really interfere with his plans for college.[/b] Of course, if you think there is not other option, do it. But it is not something to do lightly. I was also suicidal but never did anything. the important thing is you act as you are doing...taking action with therapy, time, attention, etc... [/quote]

This is bullshit. My child is going to college and their time spent at a psych institution is not part of any applications or any part of the process. They were accepted to all colleges they applied to.  I'm not saying everyone needs a psych instition, but people absolutely shouldn't be dissuaded from this option thinking it will mess up college. You know what messes up college? Being dead at 17.[/quote]

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