Free Resources for Suicidal Teens: Support, Guidance, and Hope

At Solace Treatment Center, we understand that struggling with suicidal thoughts can feel overwhelming and isolating. You are not alone. There is help, and there are people who care about you. This page provides free resources for suicidal teens, offering guidance on how to talk to your parents, strategies for managing difficult emotions, and where to find support.

If you are in immediate danger or need urgent help, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or text “HELLO” to 741741 to reach the Crisis Text Line.

How to Talk to Your Parents About Suicidal Thoughts

Opening up about suicidal thoughts can feel scary, but talking to someone you trust—especially a parent or guardian—can be the first step toward healing. Here are some tips to help you start the conversation:

Choose the Right Time and Place

Find a private, quiet moment when you can talk without distractions. If you’re feeling nervous, writing down what you want to say beforehand can help.

Be Honest About Your Feelings

Use clear, direct language to express what you’re going through. You can say:

“I’ve been feeling really overwhelmed and sad, and I don’t know what to do.”
“I need help because I’ve been having thoughts about hurting myself.”
“I’m scared about what I’m feeling, and I don’t want to feel this way anymore.”

Bring a Trusted Support Person

If talking to your parents alone feels too difficult, consider asking a trusted adult—such as a teacher, counselor, or close family friend—to be with you.

Suggest Professional Help

Your parents might not know what to do right away, and that’s okay. You can ask them to help you find a therapist or reach out to a crisis hotline together.

For more advice on talking to parents about mental health, check out Mental Health America.

Managing Suicidal Thoughts: Coping Strategies That Can Help

If you are feeling overwhelmed, these strategies may help you manage difficult emotions until you can seek professional support.

1. Create a Safety Plan

A safety plan can help you prepare for difficult moments. Include:

Emergency contacts (family, friends, crisis hotlines)
Safe places to go when you feel overwhelmed
Activities that help calm you (listening to music, journaling, drawing)

2. Use Grounding Techniques

Grounding techniques can help bring you back to the present moment and reduce overwhelming thoughts. Try:

5-4-3-2-1 technique: Name 5 things you see, 4 things you can touch, 3 things you hear, 2 things you smell, and 1 thing you taste.
Deep breathing exercises (inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, exhale for 4 seconds).

3. Engage in Positive Distractions

Doing activities you enjoy, even if they seem small, can provide relief. Try:

Watching a comforting movie or show
Playing with a pet
Exercising (even a short walk can help)
Writing down your thoughts and feelings

For additional coping techniques, visit The Trevor Project.

Free Mental Health Resources for Teens

There are many free resources available to help you through this:

Crisis Hotlines

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call 988 or visit 988lifeline.org for 24/7 support.
Crisis Text Line – Text HELLO to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.

Support for LGBTQ+ Teens

The Trevor Project – Call 1-866-488-7386, text “START” to 678678, or visit The Trevor Project for support.

Online Support Communities

Teen Line – Call 1-800-852-8336 or text “TEEN” to 839863 (available in the evenings). Visit teenlineonline.org.
7 Cups – An online platform offering peer and professional support: 7cups.com.

Finding a Therapist

If you need professional help, websites like Psychology Today and Therapy Aid Coalition can help you find a therapist near you.

You Are Not Alone

At Solace Treatment Center, we are here to help. If you or someone you love is struggling, reach out to us for compassionate, confidential support.

Visit our homepage to learn more about our mental health services or contact us today. You deserve support, hope, and healing.