Q: I heard on TV that suicide attempts by children have increased during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. I know my 7th graders and 10th grader have been under stress because of everything that has happened with the pandemic. Should I be concerned? What signs should I watch for?

It is always best to be aware of your children’s mental health, agreed the Family Project panel.

“Keep an eye our for signs of depression. A child can make a bad decision in a split second,” said panelist Joann Raftas.

“You have watched your children grow up. Look for any significant changes in their clothes or hairstyle,” said panelist Mike Daniels.

“It’s all about emotions. In middle and high school, children are developmentally more prone to isolate,” Daniels said.

“Check their rooms. Has there been any change in their school work, such as a drop in grades when they have been doing well?” Raftas said.

“There usually is not just one sign. Another thing to watch for is if they lose interest in activities they previously liked without finding a replacement. It’s all about awareness,” Daniels said.

“Have more family dinners and talk about emotions. Have conversations about the frustrations of going through the pandemic. It’s easy for kids to slide,” Raftas added.

The panelists said copy-cat suicide can be a big concern if your children know someone who committed suicide.

“Have a really good discussion about the finality of suicide and discuss how devastated friends and family would be when someone makes a choice like that,” Raftas said.

“Talk about how feelings are temporary and they come and go. Ask if they have ever felt things are so crappy that they wanted to end it,” Daniels said.

“A thought doesn’t make it happen. Help your children find something to do that’s compassion-based and model it for them. Help them get through tough times by building a life that will make them more resilient,” Raftas said.

Suicidal thoughts or actions are a sign of extreme distress and should not be ignored.

If you or someone you know needs immediate help, contact the 24-hour National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or the Crisis Text Line by texting “home” to 741 741.

This week’s panel: Pam Wallace, program coordinator, Project Child, a program of Valley Youth House; Joanne T. Raftas, registered play therapist and counselor, and Mike Daniels, LCSW, Psychotherapist.

Have a question? Email: projectchild@projectchildlv.org

The Family Project is a collaboration of the Lehigh Valley Press Focus section and Valley Youth House’s Project Child.

The Times News, Inc., and affiliates (Lehigh Valley Press) do not endorse or recommend any medical products, processes, or services or provide medical advice. The views of the columnist and column do not necessarily state or reflect those of the Lehigh Valley Press. The article content is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, or other qualified health-care provider, with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.