What should we say to our children about the suicide of my father-in-law (their grandfather)? It happened about four years ago. At the time our kids were very young and my wife and I simply told them that Grandpa died because he was sick and elderly without providing any further details. Our two oldest are …
Mental Health Q&A
What should I do if I’m convinced that my adolescent child is seriously depressed and could be suicidal?
Does a pattern of persistent depression indicate that my adolescent son may be in danger of taking his own life? I’ve been hearing a great deal about the rising problem of teenage suicide, and I’m wondering whether my son might be at risk. What exactly is the connection between depression and suicide? Where can I …
Should I allow my 14-year-old son to smoke electronic cigarettes? He’s been hounding me about it and claims that they are medically safe and that there is no reason I should not let him engage in and enjoy this activity. I’ve been telling him “no” even though I know nothing about e-cigarettes and have no …
How can I effectively deal with my struggle with severe depression while protecting my unborn baby? I’ve tried counseling before, but by itself that hasn’t seemed to work. I have found antidepressants to be extremely effective in my treatment, but I’m afraid that the medication will do harm to my baby in some way. I …
Can you help me figure out where my teenage daughter’s anger is coming from? A few years ago I would have described her as a soft-spoken, contented, happy-go-lucky little girl. Now she seems disgruntled most of the time and lashes out in fury at the drop of a hat. Sometimes I have no idea what …
How should I respond to my adolescent daughter’s cutting habit? I only recently discovered that she’s been cutting herself. I’ve tried to let her know much this concerns me. I’ve even requested that she let me “monitor” the situation. But she is very sensitive and perceives this as criticism and lack of trust. I promised …
How can I know if my teenager is developing suicidal tendencies or a self-destructive mindset? I’m asking because I’m afraid that my teenager may be moving in this direction. Are there any warning signs to be aware of? Does depression always include a risk of suicide?
Why do kids start (and continue) using drugs and other intoxicants? What steps can I take to protect my children against the dangers of substance abuse?
How do we come alongside our daughter now that she’s in the hospital after trying to take her own life? We’re wrestling with feelings of guilt, shame, confusion, and fear. We can’t understand how something like this could have happened to one of our own children. Do you have any advice for us?