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• Talk through what the youth is feeling and what they may need from you.

• Try to determine the source of the conflict or disruption, and problem solve possible solutions.

• If you are struggling with the family conflict or disruption, get your own support from family, friends, or professionals.

• Offer to help facilitate or mediate with youth and others in conflict.

• Encourage youth and others to use skills or activities that help them feel better or cope, and identify clearly what these are.

• Set limits around appropriate and inappropriate ways to manage conflict and stress.

• There are several different ways to seek counseling or treatment. This includes a private therapist, a school counselor, mental health center services, and/or substance abuse treatment. Private therapists can be a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC), or a psychologist. This is usually covered by insurance and occurs weekly or every other week. Most therapists will individualize treatment and may offer more frequent sessions if needed.

• Youth may also be able to receive counseling at school. This may be in the form of a school counselor who is accessible to all youth. The school counselor can give you more information about services available in the school.

• Youth in crisis may need more intensive support than outpatient therapy or school counseling.

• Seek an alternative place to stay

• There are times when getting some space can stabilize a crisis. If there is a safe friend or family member in the picture, it may help for the youth to stay with them for a few nights, or until a plan can be made.

• Call 9-1-1 if the conflict escalates out of control and/or becomes physical.

• When calling 9-1-1, be ready to give the dispatcher the right information. This includes name: phone number, address, date of birth, people involved, a description of the situation, and what kind of help you need. It may be helpful to inform the dispatcher of the child’s mental health issues so that the responding officer is aware.

• Remember that 9-1-1 is an emergency response, and the goal of the responding officer will be to ensure safety and move on to the next call.

• There are several possible responses by law enforcement. Law enforcement may provide support to stabilize, transport youth to the Emergency Room for evaluation, write a ticket, and/or place a youth in detention.

• Once law enforcement arrives, the outcome is up to their discretion.

If you would like assistance getting help for yourself or you would like to refer your child, student or friend for professional services, click the button below.

All information shared is confidential and will only be used to help the person you care about, get the help they need.