Suicidal children’s parents speak out

Many parents whose children have committed suicide feel that
professionals should make young people’s mental health a greater
priority, according to a UK-wide survey.

The study also found that the effect of a child’s suicide often
lasts for years and parents may need long-term support.

Researchers from Hull University contacted 74 members of the UK
organisation Papyrus, founded by parents whose children had taken
their own lives, and a total of 46 responded.

Parents reported a range of difficulties in accessing appropriate
help for themselves and their children. They felt that front-line
professionals needed to be clear about what resources were
available for families when a young person was in distress.