Caregiver Resources

As a parent or caregiver, it’s not always easy to know when your student is going through a tough time. But noticing early signs of emotional distress can make a big difference in getting them the support they need. Some warning signs may include:

• Talking about wanting to die or expressing hopelessness
• Withdraw from friends, family, or usual activities
• Major changes in mood or behavior (such as anger, irritability, or sudden calmness after distress)
• Loss of interest in school, sports, or hobbies
• Changes in eating or sleeping habits
• Risky behaviors (like alcohol or drug use, or reckless actions)
• Giving away possessions or saying goodbye to people

Tip: Not all students show the same signs, and some may try to hide how they’re feeling. Trust your instincts—if something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to check in and start a conversation.

If you notice these signs:

• Reach out to a school counselor or mental health provider
• Call or text 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (988) – available 24/7

Starting a conversation about mental health or suicide can feel intimidating but showing up and being present matters more than saying the “perfect” thing.

Helpful approaches for starting a conversation:

• Choose a quiet, calm time with no distractions.

• Be direct but gentle —for example: “I’ve noticed you’ve seemed down lately. Do you want to talk about it?”

• Listen more than you speak.

• Avoid judgment or panic.

• Remind them they are not alone.

• Offer to find help together — such as a school counselor, doctor, or Teen Link Call/Text 1-866-TEENLINK (833-6546)

Sample conversation starters:

• “I’ve noticed you seem overwhelmed. Do you want to talk about what’s been on your mind?”

• “Everyone feels anxious sometimes — you’re not alone in this.”

• “When you’re feeling anxious, what helps you feel a little better?”

Resources:

• Anxiety and Depression Association of America – Evidence-based strategies for youth and families

• Child Mind Institute – Anxiety – Videos, articles, and tools for caregivers

Sample conversation starters:

• “I’ve been worried about you. Some of the things you’ve said or done seem different — can we talk?”

• “Sometimes people feel so overwhelmed they think about hurting themselves. Has that happened to you?”

• “No matter how bad things feel right now, there are people who care and want to help.”

Resources:

• Forefront Suicide Prevention – UW – Washington-based prevention resources

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call, text, or chat 24/7

Sample conversation starters:

• “I’ve noticed some changes in how you’re eating and talking about your body. Is something going on?”

• “Sometimes people use food or exercise to cope with stress. Have you been feeling that way?”

Resources:

• National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) – Parent toolkit & 24/7 helpline

• Eating Recovery Center – Bellevue – Evidence-based treatment for children, teens, and adults

• The Emily Program – Therapy and nutrition support

Sample conversation starters:

• “I’ve noticed you’ve been upset more often lately — what’s been going on?”

• “Anger often comes from feeling unheard or out of control. Does that feel true for you?”

Resources:

• Child Mind Institute – Anger Management – Caregiver strategies and regulation skills

Sample conversation starters:

• “It’s okay to feel sad, angry, or numb — there’s no right or wrong way to grieve.”

• “We can figure out new routines or coping strategies together.”

Resources:

• The Dougy Center – National grief support for youth and families

• Seattle Children’s – Coping with Grief & Loss

• SAMHSA – Talking with Youth After a Traumatic Event

Sample conversation starters:

• “I want you to know I support you, and I’m here to listen and learn with you.”

• “You don’t have to go through anything alone — who makes you feel safe?”

Resources:

• The Trevor Project – 24/7 crisis support for LGBTQ+ youth

• UTOPIA Washington – Queer & Trans Pacific Islander-led support in Kent, WA

• Lavender Rights Project – Legal and advocacy support for gender-diverse communities

• NAMI South King County – Support Groups – Free, confidential groups for families and caregivers

• NAMI Washington – Español – Spanish-language resources and groups

• NAMI Eastside en Español – Video Overview