Educational Options and Deployment Supports
Explore educational options available in your community. Find resources to help your Family through the deployment cycle.
Army Youth Sponsorship Program
Connect with the Army Youth Sponsorship Program for all transitions experienced by children and youth.
Suicide can affect anyone, including children/youth. It’s crucial to take care of the young people in your life and recognize the warning signs of suicidal ideation. Please see the information below for more information on these warning signs. If y ou sense a problem, don’t wait—get help. Early intervention can save lives. If you suspect a child or youth is struggling, take action immediately. Your support and intervention can make all the difference.
Seek assistance at your local school or medical facility. Call CYS or Family Advocacy. Military Family Life Counselors or family pediatricians can help, too. Most importantly: don’t ignore the signs.
Warning Signs of Suicidal Ideation in Children/Youth
Watch for Changes in Behavior
- Changes in sleeping pattern
- Changes in eating habit
- Withdrawal
- Depression
- Psychosomatic symptoms (headaches, stomach aches, or other pains that can’t be explained)
Remember - Changes may be subtle. Trust your instincts.
Preoccupation with Death
Questions about death are normal; however, if your child/youth begins to display a preoccupation with death, such as researching ways to die or talking about their own death, this could be a warning sign of suicidal ideation.
Be Aware of Changes at School
Some changes in grades and attitudes are normal, but a pattern of negative change can be a warning sign.
Look for:
- Drop in grades
- Decreased interaction with teachers and peers
- School refusal
- Any loss of interest in activities that were previously enjoyed (sports, clubs, etc.)
Feelings of Hopelessness
Take note if your child/youth displays feelings of hopelessness for the future. They may communicate this by saying that there is no one able to help.
Children/youth giving away their favorite toys or possessions or even just talking about this can be a sign of hopelessness, especially when combined with other changes.
If you have any concerns that your child/youth may be engaged in suicidal ideation, please reach out for help.
- School Counselor/Teacher
- Military Family Life Counselor
- CYS Director
- Family Pediatrician
- Family Advocacy Program Manager
