Hi LKD,
I read your recent post.
We appreciate you reaching out and sharing the mental health challenges you, your family and young son are experiencing. It takes a courage.
I would like to acknowledge and complement you for the support and acceptance and reassurance you have shared in how you have responded to your son.
You have shared that your son has been suicidal and I also want to highlight that safety is a priority. If you think he may be in immediate danger, or if he has a plan or means to harm himself, please call 000 or take him to the nearest emergency department. You do not need to wait until things become worse to get urgent help.
If he is not in immediate danger but you are concerned, I would encourage you reach out and contact professional support as soon as possible. Crisis supports such as Lifeline are available 24/7 on 13 11 14, Kids Helpline supports young people aged 5–25 on 1800 55 1800, Suicide Call Back Service is available on 1300 659 467, and Beyond Blue is available on 1300 22 4636. Qlife may also be helpful for LGBTIQA+ young people and families on 1800 184 527.
It may also help to book an appointment with your GP and ask for a mental health assessment and referral to an appropriate youth mental health service, such as headspace or a local Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service.
You are already doing very important work by supporting your son.
You may also want to contact the Carer Gateway on 1800 422 737 to explore supports available for yourself during this challenging time.
We wish you and your son all the best.
Thank you again for reaching out.
Warm regards
AltZing-Connect.
