A new report from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) brings a critical issue into national focus: the mental health of young people. The AAP now recommends that all children and teens receive annual screenings for mental and behavioral health concerns—a step that Lutheran Family and Children’s Services (LFCS) fully supports. A full copy of the AAP’s new report is available here.
This new report arrives at a critical time, as September marks Suicide Prevention Month—a time to break down stigma and open the door for conversations that can save lives. The AAP’s findings align with a crisis we see every day in our communities. In Missouri, the situation is particularly urgent: suicide is the third leading cause of death for youth ages 10 to 19, and the state’s suicide rate is 48% higher than the national average. For years, LFCS has witnessed these struggles firsthand, working with children and families on the front lines of this crisis.
“Screening is the first step, but it’s only effective if young people have access to care,” said Lindsay Jeffries, Director of Behavioral Health at LFCS. “It’s crucial that children and teens have a place where they can be heard and connected with the right support to address their mental health needs.”
Knowing the warning signs can empower us to take action before a crisis escalates. Some of the most common indicators include:
- Expressing hopelessness or feeling like a burden
- Withdrawing from friends, family, and activities
- Changes in sleep or appetite
- Increased use of alcohol or drugs
- Talking about death or giving away possessions
For a more detailed examination of these signs, visit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
At LFCS, suicide prevention isn’t just a focus for one month—it’s part of our counseling and support services year-round. Our team of licensed counselors provides safe spaces for young people to share their struggles. We help teens and their families uncover hope and build resilience. We understand that mental health does not exist in isolation; family stress, trauma, or identity struggles can all contribute to a sense of hopelessness. By addressing the whole picture, we help individuals move from crisis toward stability and strength.
How You Can Make a Difference
Suicide prevention is not the responsibility of professionals alone—it takes all of us. Here are a few ways you can help:
- Start conversations. Ask your loved ones how they are doing. Do not shy away from talking about mental health.
- Share resources. Remind people that help is available. The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline can be reached 24/7 by calling or texting 988.
- Reduce stigma. Challenge harmful myths and encourage open discussions about mental health in your family, school, and community.
- Support organizations. Your donations and volunteer hours make it possible for agencies like LFCS to provide counseling and support. For more ways to support, you can read our blog on Giving Resources for National Suicide Prevention Month.
An essential part of prevention is also being proactive. To learn more about how self-care can be a powerful tool in suicide prevention, you can read our previous blog post here: Self-Care Awareness and Suicide Prevention: A Unified Approach.
For more information on LFCS’s services, or to seek help, please visit lfcsmo.org or call our toll-free number at 866-326-LFCS (5327).