Clinicians often avoid asking adolescents directly about suicidal thoughts for fear of suggesting them. The evidence consistently shows that asking does not increase risk, and many young people report relief at being asked.
The question works best asked privately, without parents in the room, after explaining what will and will not be kept confidential.
- See adolescents alone for part of every consultation, after explaining the limits of confidentiality.
- Ask directly: 'Have you had thoughts of ending your life?'
- If yes, ask about plans, means, past attempts and what has stopped them so far.
- Talk with families about securing medicines, pesticides and other means at home.
- Arrange same-day assessment when there is a plan or recent attempt.
Why it matters
A direct question is the only reliable way to find risk that young people rarely volunteer.
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