Although suicide by children and young people is not common, it is an important issue for parents to understand. In 2015, 405 children and young people under the age of 25 died by suicide. That’s greater than the number who died in road accidents and makes suicide the leading cause of death for young people aged 12 to 25. Kids Helpline recently consulted young people who had thought about or attempted suicide. They talked about their parents more than anyone else, but it was clear that many parents found it difficult to know how to support their child. This Hot Topic will help you understand suicidal thoughts and behaviour, and what you can do if you’re concerned about your child.