The Silent Crisis: Changing the narrative on child suicide

As a parent, my heart breaks for the family and friends of Riley Townsend, a 12-year-old boy from Nottinghamshire who is believed to have died by way of suicide last week after struggling with his mental health.

Riley had been a rising football star, playing for local teams Kirkby Colts FC and Teversal FC. Several local clubs held a minute's silence ahead of matches this last weekend out of respect.

We know that Riley suffered with autism and ADHD.

Children and young people diagnosed with ADHD may experience symptoms of depression and anxiety, these can be heightened when untreated. ADHD can increase conflict with others due to feelings of failure, hopelessness, rejection and loneliness causing isolation, this then increases the risk of depression and thoughts of suicide.?

ADHD also heightens risky behaviours and self-harm due to impulsivity, which is a prominent symptom of ADHD.

As we approach World Suicide Prevention Day (10th September) and ADHD Awareness Month in October, it feels like an important moment to pause and reflect on those who have been affected by suicide.

Whenever somebody takes their own life it’s extremely upsetting. But when a child loses faith in their existence, this feels like the ultimate loss of hope.

Child suicide is a heartbreaking and often overlooked crisis, but it is a reality that demands our attention.

In England, a quarter of 11–16-year-olds and nearly half of 17–19-year-olds (46.8%) with a mental health condition reported they have self-harmed or attempted suicide at some point in their lives.

A recent Children’s Society Report found that many young people feel unhappy with their lives. Over 11% of the children and young people who completed the survey in 2024 had low wellbeing. Shockingly, in 2022 the UK’s 15-year-olds had the lowest average life satisfaction in Europe.

This tragic phenomenon raises urgent questions about the state of mental health support for young people and highlights the need for immediate action.

Suicidal thoughts can impact anyone, and not everyone feels able to talk to those closest to them.

So, knowing that external support is available if someone is struggling with thoughts of suicide is incredibly important. It shows they are not alone and can help save lives.

Preventing child suicide requires a multifaceted approach. This includes increasing access to mental health services, fostering open communication about mental health issues, and creating environments where children feel safe and supported.

Schools should implement programs that teach emotional resilience and coping skills, while parents and caregivers must be encouraged to engage in meaningful conversations with their children about their feelings and experiences.

In a world with ever-increasing pressures on young people – especially on social media - it is our collective responsibility to ensure that they do not have to face these challenges alone. We need to create a future where every child feels valued, supported, and safe.

Changing the narrative on child suicide is about transforming how we perceive this complex issue, shifting from a culture of silence and stigma to one of openness, understanding, and support.

Incorporating these insights into our daily interactions with children—whether as parents, educators, or community members—can make a significant difference. Let’s commit to being vigilant, compassionate, and proactive in addressing this silent crisis.

The lives of our children depend on it.

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Further resources

For more information on child suicide, or if you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, these are some good organisations that can help you.

The Children’s Society is a national charity working to transform the hopes and happiness of young people facing abuse, exploitation and neglect.

PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide is a UK charity that is dedicated to the prevention of suicide in young people and promoting healthy wellbeing.

Childline is a free, private and confidential counselling service for anyone under 19 in the UK where you can talk about anything.

ADHD Awareness Month is a global organisation that provides reliable information and resources to help people thrive with ADHD.

World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) is organised by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP). The purpose of this day is to raise awareness around the globe that suicide can be prevented.