How to talk to teenagers TW suicide

[Ifyouknowmesaynowt]

I need to tell senior aged children that their father took an overdose. I believe he is OK but covid rules means I couldn't be there even if I wanted to.

I don't know what to do, how to tell them and whilst I have a lot that needs to be achieved before I do collect them from school currently I am sat here inert.

At this stage, you can explain that he is in hospital. They don't need to know he has taken an overdose. Do you know what his prognosis is? Is this your ex or current partner?

Thanks for replying. Current, their father. I can't see how to deflect the question why, when I tell them he is in hospital.

I agree, let them know he is in hospital. I think I would acknowledge that he is in a great deal of emotional pain and has harmed himself. And then try and answer any questions they have. I think if they are senior age it's a good idea to be as frank as you can be.

Thank you for replying. I've contacted school to ask for pastoral support but that won't be for a few days at least.

They know about suicide as a classmate lost a family member in the summer. I don't have any answers for them, I can't promise anything.

Is he having treatment for (or to prevent) liver damage? If so, tell them that, there may be a problem with his liver, they're doing tests now.

Is there someone that can collect them for you? I'm really sorry you're going through this, I hope you get more positive news soon.

I don't know anything. I packed his phone and charger etc but have no one to contact and the switchboard just rings and rings. The hospital is overwhelmed so he could still be in the back of the ambulance.

If someone else picked them up they would think the worst. Honestly thank you for replying.