How To Help

I've been touching on quite a few different warning signs that a child may be in need of help, whatever that help may be. It could be that child needs more real time and communication from a parent, maybe just needing to be recognized and listened too. Then again, they may be in a situation that requires more professional attention such as from a doctor, counselor, or other authority figure that is not a family member. The following are some ways in which you can help a child that you feel may be in need of some help: *Acknowledge that you've noticed they appear to have been behaving in a different manner than they usually do. Assure them that you are there for them and are a willing listener. Ask them if there is anything they would like to talk about. Tell them there is no problem that the two of you can not solve together. *Listen to them and really try to understand their emotions and what they're NOT saying. Hear what they say without judging them. If they don't want to talk to you, ask them if there is a doctor or teacher or someone that they would be more comfortable talking to. *Make sure, as best you can, that they are living in a safe environment. Studies show that family connectedness results in a lesser chance of teens committing suicide. The more a child is around the family and not feeling isolated, the greater chance of that child being successful in life's situations.