Back in October, Child Helpline International teamed up with Missing Children Europe to coordinate a two-part interactive training for child helpline and hotline members of both our networks on the topic of responding to suicide and self-harm.
The training was led by expert speakers:
- Koen Sevenants –Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Lead for Children And Families in Humanitarian Emergencies at Global Child Protection Area of Responsibility (CP AoR); and
- Kelly Thorpe – Head of Helplines at Papyrus UK
These trainings aimed to share practical guidance with child helpline and hotline staff on counselling processes and communication when responding to children expressing suicidal thoughts or ideations, and also to learn more about the associated risks when the child goes missing or runs away.
In total, we were joined by over 250 child helpline and hotline staff.
Why this topic?
In 2022, one in four contacts reported by Child Helpline International’s members related to mental health. This was the most frequent reason for children and young people, or their caregivers, making contact with a child helpline. Within this category, almost one in four contacts related to suicidal thoughts and suicide attempts. Additionally, one in ten contacts related to self-harming behaviours. The data from child helplines indicates that self-destructive tendencies remain a major mental health concern raised by children and young people.
Similarly, for missing children hotlines, children who run away represent the highest proportion of cases, with over 65% of missing cases in 2023 involving children who ran away from home or care institutions. In many of these cases, challenging family or care situations and mental health issues are reported as the main drivers, posing significant risks of self-harm and suicide.
As a result, many of the member helplines and hotlines of both Child Helpline International and Missing Children Europe indicated an interest to learn more about this devastating topic.
Key Takeaways
- Adolescence as a critical period. Adolescence is marked by identity struggles, separation from parental authority and hormonal changes. When exposed to adverse childhood experiences (aces) – such as abuse, neglect or bereavement – adolescents are at heightened risk for depression, self-harm and suicidal ideation. This stage of development becomes a pivotal time for tailored support.
- Building resilience as a preventative measure. Resilience is a key protective factor against self-harm and suicide. Early intervention through education, fostering emotional regulation and establishing supportive relationships strengthens a child’s ability to cope with adversity.
- Shifting the narrative on suicide. Changing the way we talk about suicide reduces stigma and fosters openness. Encouraging direct, honest discussions and moving away from taboo language helps children feel heard and supported. Empowering them through these conversations allows them to regain control over their emotional wellbeing.
- Wellbeing of child helpline and hotline staff. Supporting children in crisis is demanding work. Frontline staff and the systems around them must prioritize self-care, debriefing and team collaboration to maintain their ability to assist effectively.
Concluding Thoughts
Facilitating these trainings together with Missing Children Europe was an incredibly rewarding experience.
I deeply appreciate the professionalism and expertise of Koen and Kelly, our expert speakers, in guiding participants through the highly sensitive topic of responding to suicide and self-harm.
I am also grateful to the committed participants whose engagement was integral to the success of this training.
Members of Child Helpline International can watch this training and find all materials on our eLearning platform.
Laura Holliday
Learning Coordinator
