Children and Suicide: What Are The Red Flags?

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – The nation was rocked by the news that police were investigating the alleged suicide of an 8-year-old boy on Thursday.

The family called police after finding the young boy with a belt around his neck hanging from the security bars of a bathroom window in their St. Albans Drive home. 

Although emergency medical services responded and tried to resuscitate him, he later died in hospital.

Chief Superintendent Chrislyn Skippings tells Our News that the police are collaborating with Social Services to ensure all members family get much needed counseling.

The 8-year-old was a third grade student of T.G. Glover Primary School, known for being wise beyond his years.

A shocking loss felt not only by the family, but across his school where grief counselors visited Friday morning, hoping to support students and faculty.

We also spoke to mental health specialist, Dr. Sean Knowles, who tells us depression can be seen in children as young as 4, and anxiety can develop as early as infancy.

He shares these tip for parents in spotting warning signs that there may be a mental health struggle going on with their child – keep an eye out for changes in mood, appetite, and sleep patterns.

As for what to do next?

“The best advice I can definitely give is for parents to have conversations with their children from very young,” Dr. Knowles said.