Supporting Your Teen Through Suicidal Struggles: Why CAMS Can Make a Difference
Kara Cunningham, M.A.
As a mental health professional trained in the Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality (CAMS) protocol, I specialize in helping teens and adolescents navigate one of the most difficult challenges they—and their families—may ever face: suicidal thoughts and behaviors. If you’re a parent concerned about your teen’s emotional well-being, I want you to know that there is a compassionate, evidence-based approach available that puts your child’s voice at the center of their healing journey.
CAMS is not just another clinical tool—it’s a collaborative framework that empowers teens to talk openly about their suicidal thoughts in a safe, nonjudgmental space. Unlike traditional approaches that may focus solely on symptom reduction, CAMS is designed to understand the “why” behind suicidality. It helps teens identify the drivers of their distress, and together, we build a personalized plan to address those issues while restoring hope and a sense of purpose.
Here are two compelling reasons why scheduling a CAMS session for your teen this week could be a life-changing decision:
1. Early Intervention Can Prevent Crisis
Suicidal thoughts often begin subtly—withdrawal from friends, changes in sleep or eating habits, or vague expressions of hopelessness. These signs can be easy to dismiss or misinterpret, especially during adolescence when emotional ups and downs are common. But early intervention is key. CAMS allows us to assess risk in a collaborative way that doesn’t alienate or frighten your teen. Instead, it invites them into a conversation where they feel heard, understood, and supported. The sooner we begin this process, the more likely we are to prevent a crisis and build a foundation for long-term emotional resilience.
2. CAMS Builds Trust and Engagement
One of the most powerful aspects of CAMS is its ability to foster trust between the teen and the clinician. Many adolescents are reluctant to engage in therapy, especially when they feel misunderstood or judged. CAMS changes that dynamic. It’s not about labeling or diagnosing—it’s about listening and working together. Teens often report feeling relief after just one session, simply because someone took the time to understand their pain without trying to “fix” them. This trust becomes the cornerstone of meaningful progress and healing.
As a parent, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed or unsure about what steps to take when your child is struggling. But you don’t have to navigate this alone. CAMS offers a structured, compassionate path forward—and I’m here to walk it with you and your teen.
If you’ve noticed changes in your child’s mood, behavior, or outlook, don’t wait. Let’s schedule a session this week and begin the journey toward healing together.