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Finding the Words: How to Effectively Speak with Kids about Mental Health and Suicide Prevention

May 8, 2024

Learn practical tips and scripts for how to speak with kids and teens about mental health topics, including suicidality.

In this Article

Speakers

Chris Smith, LCSW

Chris Smith is a licensed clinical social worker, psychotherapist and Director of the Entertainment Community Fund’s Looking Ahead program, which supports the mental health and well-being of child actors and other professional young performers. Chris has worked with youth and families for over twenty years in after-school programming, crisis mobile outreach and hospice. He is passionate about promoting mental health and wellness, especially for youth and young adults. In addition to his role with Looking Ahead, he maintains a private therapy practice in Los Angeles and also provides trainings and talks on topics such as suicide prevention, healing from racial trauma and group facilitation.

Reviewed By

Key Takeaways

Featured Speakers

Chris Smith, LCSW

Chris Smith is a licensed clinical social worker, psychotherapist and Director of the Entertainment Community Fund’s Looking Ahead program, which supports the mental health and well-being of child actors and other professional young performers. Chris has worked with youth and families for over twenty years in after-school programming, crisis mobile outreach and hospice. He is passionate about promoting mental health and wellness, especially for youth and young adults. In addition to his role with Looking Ahead, he maintains a private therapy practice in Los Angeles and also provides trainings and talks on topics such as suicide prevention, healing from racial trauma and group facilitation.

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How can I start a conversation with my kid about mental health?
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Sometimes it can be hard to find the words to talk to kids and teens about certain topics. As parents and caring adults, we may feel nervous about saying the wrong thing, or making matters worse. However, research shows that when it comes to topics like suicidality - talking is helpful, not harmful.

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For Mental Health Awareness Month, Cartwheel hosted guest speaker Chris Smith, LCSW for a webinar where he shared practical tips and scripts for how to speak with kids and teens about mental health topics, including suicide prevention. We reviewed how to break down communication barriers and let your child know that you're available to support them.

‍
How can I start a conversation with my kid about mental health?
‍

Sometimes it can be hard to find the words to talk to kids and teens about certain topics. As parents and caring adults, we may feel nervous about saying the wrong thing, or making matters worse. However, research shows that when it comes to topics like suicidality - talking is helpful, not harmful.

‍

For Mental Health Awareness Month, Cartwheel hosted guest speaker Chris Smith, LCSW for a webinar where he shared practical tips and scripts for how to speak with kids and teens about mental health topics, including suicide prevention. We reviewed how to break down communication barriers and let your child know that you're available to support them.

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Meet the speakers

Chris Smith, LCSW

Chris Smith is a licensed clinical social worker, psychotherapist and Director of the Entertainment Community Fund’s Looking Ahead program, which supports the mental health and well-being of child actors and other professional young performers. Chris has worked with youth and families for over twenty years in after-school programming, crisis mobile outreach and hospice. He is passionate about promoting mental health and wellness, especially for youth and young adults. In addition to his role with Looking Ahead, he maintains a private therapy practice in Los Angeles and also provides trainings and talks on topics such as suicide prevention, healing from racial trauma and group facilitation.

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