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[jennis233]

hello my 7 yr old stated that he wanted to kill him self due to 3 yr custody battle with his abusive father . what steps do I take and does a child this age know about sucide

[skepticalpeach]

Poor little guy! Even if he's not seriously saying this, I would still take it as a wake up call. I really hope that you get full custody of him. It sounds like when he sees his dad he is being put in danger. You'd think that would be pretty good grounds to keep him away from his father.

I would take him to a therapist and have the therapist write the judge a letter after he/she speaks to your son. This battle over your son really needs to end because it is taking a toll on him. (By no means am I saying just give him up!) Build up your case and do everything you can to make his life more stable. Good luck and let us know what happens!

[4slenderthread]

Lyak, I completely agree with specialmoms post. It sounds as though this divorce is taking a real toll on your son. Big changes affect our little ones in ways we can't imagine. They simply don't have the ability to cope and reason out their feelings, especially the young ones, such as your son.
It goes without saying but your son shouldn't hear anything about the divorce and custody battle. Adults tend to speak about personal details without realizing it. Sometimes it's just a few words to a friend, sometimes it's just a comment during a phone call. We often forget that children hear everything, and they imagine the worst. They are so sensitive to their parents moods and behavior. Let him know he can talk to you about anything - anytime. I agree that therapy could be exactly what he needs right now!
I wish you both the very best! Take care...

[specialmom]

Here is the problem when a child says something about killing themselves----  many just say such a phrase to convey how upset they are without any real intent behind it.  Careless use of words and many adults actually do the same.  However, if there is any ideation behind it as well (how, more than just one passing statement) it is actually considered a medical emergency in the psychology world.  I am not trying to be dramatic, I promise.  But it is a serious thing.  So, you have provided a tiny bit of information here.  The question is-----  what all is involved when he's said it, any details beyond just the phrase that he gives, and what does your gut tell you about it?  If you feel that there is serious intent behind it in ANY way, you really have to act.
And at the very least, he is telling you he is greatly distressed.  I'd consider a therapist that specializes in children as someone he can talk to and really be open without worrying about 'sides' as he would be with mom and dad in a custody battle.
You can also talk to his school counselor.  Our school has a program for kids that have gone through family changes such as divorce which your child might really benefit from something like that.

You can call a suicide prevention hot line and also discuss with them ideas on what to look for with your child.  

He may just be using that phrase and I sure hope so, but you just need to make sure that's all it is and get help either way to get him through a tough emotional time.   Peace

[LyakGarcia]

take him to therapy, kids this days are a lot smarter so I'm sure he didn't just repeat what he heard on TV, God bless you <3