An official army family and MWR Site

Suicide Warning Signs

Suicide can affect anyone, including children and youth. Take care of the young people you know. Recognize the warning signs. Sudden loss of interest in hobbies, a focus on death and dying, or feelings of hopelessness can be warning signs of suicidal ideation. School absenteeism, a drop in grades, or giving away possessions can also be indicators. Look out for changes in appetite or sleep patterns. Bottom line: if you sense a problem, get help.

Seek assistance at your local school or medical facility. Call CYS or Family Advocacy. Military Family Life Counselors or family pediatricians can help, too. Most importantly: don’t ignore the signs.

Download Info-graph 
 

WARNING SIGNS OF SUICIDAL IDEATION IN CHILDREN/YOUTH

Watch for Changes in Behavior

  • Changes in sleeping patterns

  • Changes in eating habits

  • Withdrawal

  • Depression

  • Psychosomatic symptoms (headaches, stomach aches, or other pains that can’t be explained)

Remember - Changes may be subtle. Trust your instincts.
 

Preoccupation with Death 

Questions about death are normal; however, if your child/youth begins to display a preoccupation with death, such as researching ways to die or talking about their own death, this could be a warning sign of suicidal ideation.
 

Be Aware of Changes at School

Some changes in grades and attitudes are normal, but a pattern of negative change can be a warning sign. Look for:

  • Drop in grades
  • Decreased interaction with teachers and peers
  • School refusal
  • Any loss of interest in activities that were previously enjoyed (sports, clubs, etc.)

 

Feelings of Hopelessness

Take note if your child/youth displays feelings of hopelessness for the future.  They may communicate this by saying that there is no one able to help.

Children/youth giving away their favorite toys or possessions or even just talking about this can be a sign of hopelessness, especially when combined with other changes.

 

If you have any concerns that your child/youth may be engaged in suicidal ideation, please

reach out for help.

  • School Counselor/Teacher
  • Military Family Life Counselor
  • CYS Director
  • Family Pediatrician
  • Family Advocacy Program Manager

 

More Child & Youth Services

thumbnail

CYS Harvest Fest 2025

Bring your kids and enjoy CYS's Annual Harvest Fest! This year with a S.T.E.M. focus!

Sep 20 10 am - 2 pm

CYS Harvest Fest 2025

Bring your kids and enjoy CYS's Annual Harvest Fest! This year with a S.T.E.M. focus!

Sep 20 10 am - 2 pm
thumbnail

HEART Global with CYS SKIES

Formerly known as The Young Americans, HEART Global returns to USAG Stuttgart for a 3-day intensive musical and performing arts educational workshop for youth. 

Oct 3 2025 - Oct 5 2025
thumbnail
thumbnail

HEART Global with CYS SKIES

Formerly known as The Young Americans, HEART Global returns to USAG Stuttgart for a 3-day intensive musical and performing arts educational workshop for youth. 

Oct 3 2025 - Oct 5 2025
thumbnail

CYS Recruitment Fair

Join us at the In-Person CYS Recruitment Fair and take the first step towards an exciting professional journey!

Oct 14 10 am - 1 pm
thumbnail

CYS 2025 Winter Sports Registration

Register your kids for the most exciting Winter Sports Programs for all ages!

Oct 15
thumbnail

CYS Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) Meeting

Join us and enrich your knowledge of CYS programs, activities, highlights, and more!

Nov 5 12 pm
thumbnail

CYS Parents Day Out

Join us for a relaxing and entertaining day, while you mingle with other parents in our community!

Dec 13 10 am - 4 pm
thumbnail

Stuttgart Youth Newcomers Orientation

 Calling all new Stuttgart adventurers youth members (6th-12th grade)!

Dec 29 8:30 am - 4 pm

Stuttgart Youth Newcomers Orientation

 Calling all new Stuttgart adventurers youth members (6th-12th grade)!

Dec 29 8:30 am - 4 pm
thumbnail