700 Children's® – A Blog by Pediatric Experts

Posts by John Ackerman, PhD

Posted by: John Ackerman, PhD , Rachel Jones , Amberle Prater, PhD, LPCC-S on Apr 24, 2026

Losing someone to death by suicide can be shocking, frightening, and incomprehensible for both adults and children alike. Helping a child manage the unexpected loss in a healthy way is an important step forward.

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How to Support Children Through Grief
Navigating any kind of loss can be difficult. Supporting a child through the loss of a loved one, especially when you’re grieving, too, is even harder.
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How to Talk with Children About Death

Talking to a child about death can feel overwhelming.  Walking through a grief journey together can create closeness and resilience that they will carry with them as they grow.

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About this Blog

Pediatric News You Can Use From America’s Largest Pediatric Hospital and Research Center

700 Children’s® features the most current pediatric health care information and research from our pediatric experts – physicians and specialists who have seen it all. Many of them are parents and bring a special understanding to what our patients and families experience. If you have a child – or care for a child – 700 Children’s was created especially for you.

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Latest Posts

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Teen Mental Health Issues and the "Not My Kid" Phenomenon

Feb 05, 2026

As a parent or caregiver, you know your children – you’ve seen them grow up and are familiar with their strengths and challenges. It can be surprising and worrying to realize they won’t always share their lives with you. Read More

back of girls head with a ponytail and hat on the phone

The Importance of Support and Resources for LGBTQ+ Youth

May 15, 2025

LGBTQ+ youth deserve safe spaces and supportive relationships that empower them to thrive. Learn how advocacy, acceptance, and access to vital resources can make a life-saving difference. Read More

girl sitting on bench

Myths About Suicide: Moving Beyond Common Misconceptions

Mar 22, 2024

When it comes to suicide, there’s a lot of competing information that makes it hard to tell myth from fact. But knowing the facts may allow us to take life-saving steps to help our children. Read More

mom with daughter

Talking to Your Kids About Depression and Suicide

Mar 19, 2024

Talking to your child about suicide may be the toughest conversation you ever have, but it may also be the most important. Read More

Suicide Protocols

Warning Signs of Suicide on Social Media: What You Can Do When It’s Someone You Know

Feb 29, 2024

People are spending more time on social media than ever. Most posts are harmless depictions of life in general; status updates, pictures of friends or food, or even a joke. However, sometimes people discuss personal topics and show signs that things are not going well. Read More

Child sitting at desk with teacher

ADHD and Youth Suicide: Is There a Link?

Feb 26, 2024

Unfortunately, children with ADHD are at an increased risk of experiencing depression and suicidal thoughts or behaviors throughout their lifetime, which suggests emotional and social factors should be a focus of care for these children. Read More

13 Reasons Why: Should Parents Be Concerned About This Netflix Series?

Feb 23, 2024

The mini-series 13 Reasons Why (13RW), adapted from a young adult novel, was released on Netflix this past week. 13RW relays the fictional story of a high schooler, Hannah Baker, who has died by suicide before the story even begins. Read More

Bullies

Bullying Affects Everyone Involved – Even the Bullies

Feb 22, 2024

While steps are rightfully taken to support the child who was bullied, the bully’s behavior is usually met with anger and punishment. However, the presence of bullying behaviors may actually be a sign that help is needed. Read More