Starting the Conversation: Suicide, Stigma, and Support

Presented by Elisa Stern, M.A., M.Res. & Amelia Moser, M.A. Recent research has indicated that one in five adolescents has seriously considered suicide in the past year. Talking about mental health and suicide can feel challenging, but given the increasing prevalence of such experiences, doing so is essential for building a supportive and informed community. Even if your child is not directly experiencing suicidal thoughts, it is likely that they will know a peer who is struggling, now or in the future. Knowing how to offer support in these moments can make all the difference. Suicide remains a complex and often stigmatized topic, yet open and proactive conversations can play a vital role in prevention. This talk will provide an overview of: – Adolescent brain development and its relationship with mood and suicide risk, offering insight into why young people may experience emotional challenges in distinct ways – Common misconceptions about suicide and strategies for reducing stigma – Several practical tools to initiate and navigate conversations about suicide By promoting awareness, fostering open dialogue, and providing evidence-based clinical strategies, this presentation aims to empower caregivers to approach these discussions with confidence and compassion, ensuring they can offer meaningful support when it is needed most.