Talking with a child about a suicide

Conversations Matter when talking with a child about a suicide

There has been a death by suicide and I need to inform a child. What do I say? What do I do?

When a child needs to be informed of a death, it can be difficult to know what to say and how to explain it. A first response may be to say nothing or avoid the conversation, but children can realise that something is happening around them.

This resource provides some basic tips for talking with a child about a suicide. It is designed specifically for parents or primary caregivers but the information may be useful for other adults.

Download the resources

Fact sheet - Talking with a child about suicide
Podcast (female voice) - When talking with a child about suicide
Podcast (male voice) - When talking with a child about suicide
Services and supports
Useful resources
Care and Support Pack for Family and Friends Bereaved by Suicide (NSW)
Resource
health.nsw.gov.au
Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement
The largest provider of grief and bereavement education in Australia
grief.org.au

References

The Conversations Matter resources have been developed by Everymind based on a set of core principles developed through a research Framework. Information about background research and specific references used can be found HERE.

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