How do you ask young people about foreseeable changes without making it worse for them?

A colleague at headspace posted this really important question regarding how to ask youth about foreseeable changes in a way that is hopeful and forward thinking, while minimising the possibility of causing distress. 

• Developmentally, young people and adolescents often struggle with future-focused thinking. That’s why identifying foreseeable changes can be such a powerful tool in engaging them in planning. 

If a youth is already struggling though, asking them about what might happen to make things worse could be really difficult.

Here's an approach to try:  
When exploring foreseeable changes with someone, let them know the why first. Be transparent and explain that it will help for planning so it becomes an empowering preparatory conversation.

For example, you might say:

"Now I want to work with you to make some plans that you can rely on to keep safe and feel better, especially if you start feeling worse. A lot of times people make the best, most realistic, and specific plans when they imagine planning for a specific event that could happen in the future - it makes it more real...

So let’s think together about a couple of events that could be really big “oh no” moments. Remember - when we get the two down we’ll make plans to help you get through those events. 

• Something that might make you feel overwhelmed or suicidal. 
• What is a specific change or event that could make you feel out of control, alone, or embarrassed?
• I know this might be something you don’t want to think about, but it’s important.
• Could we get even more specific? Could you help me get a movie in my head about what could happen?
  
   

Though this may be a bit more common developmentally for youth, in reality for anyone experiencing suicidal thinking, this type of contextualisation can be really helpful to help them proactively engage in planning.

Sharing the "why" behind exploring foreseeable changes can also be a way to engage family, carers, and support people in planning too.

Additional Resources

• Click here for more information about foreseeable changes and contingency planning.
• Foreseeable Changes & Contingency Planning Printable ID Tag