Suicide
How do I talk to children about a suicide?
Short answer
Use honest, age-appropriate language. Avoid euphemisms. For young children: "[Name] was very, very sick in their mind and their sickness caused them to die." For older children: the truth, at a level they can handle, with space for questions. Research consistently shows…
What this usually means
Use honest, age-appropriate language. Avoid euphemisms. For young children: "[Name] was very, very sick in their mind and their sickness caused them to die." For older children: the truth, at a level they can handle, with space for questions. Research consistently shows that honest conversation reduces long-term harm. A child therapist can help you prepare.
What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county phone numbers for coroner, vital records, and local offices.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.