A member asked:

What can you do to watch a child to make sure they don't attempt suicide again?

7 doctors weighed in across 2 answers

Constant supervision: It's most important to insure the child is in a safe environment - whether at home or in a treatment facility. The parent/guardian needs to be able to provide constant supervision and monitoring. The environment itself needs to be safe: lack of access to weapons, medications (even over-the-counter ones), sharp objects. Ongoing treatment is also crucial to symptom improvement.

Answered 12/31/2014

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Dr. Glen Elliott answered

Specializes in Child Psychiatry

It takes balance: Fortunately, strong suicidal feelings rarely last very long, especially in teenagers. But, someone who has made a suicide attempt before is more likely to do so again. If at all possible, partner with the part of the adolescent that wants to stay alive--if there weren't some part that did, he or she would be dead. Have them help think about would will keep them safe if the urge returns.

Answered 4/16/2016

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