# Parents and experts discuss suicide prevention after man's hanging > Parents and experts share child-friendly approaches to discussing suicide after a Black man's hanging in Upper Marlboro. - Title: Parents and experts discuss suicide prevention after man's… - Summary: Parents and experts share child-friendly approaches to discussing suicide after a Black man's hanging in Upper Marlboro. Parents and mental health experts… - Keywords: upper marlboro, suicide prevention, black youth, mental health, child trauma, suicide attempts, prince george's county, 988 lifeline, news, local, Parents, experts - Source: The Banner — https://thebanner.com/community/public-health/suicide-prevention-death-upper-marlboro-XCQQPN5RMZAA3JFKBMK7AGYBMM - Author: Mitch Ryals - Published: 2026-09-24T21:22:32.632+00:00 - Read time: 1 min - Topics: upper marlboro, suicide prevention, black youth, mental health, child trauma, suicide attempts, prince george's county, 988 lifeline, news, local ## Parents and experts discuss suicide prevention Parents and mental health experts share strategies for discussing traumatic events with children after a Black man's hanging in Upper Marlboro. > How did it happen?" her son asked. ## Child's reaction to the incident A 6-year-old overheard his mother discussing a man found dead outside their home and asked why he died. > Wow, why? ## Public suicide death in Upper Marlboro A Black man died by suicide in Upper Marlboro, sparking community concerns about mental health and historical lynchings. > they found him hanging from a tree ## County officials address the incident Prince George's County officials held a news conference to clarify the death was suicide and address community skepticism. > We will tell the truth, we will be transparent ## Community skepticism about the death Some community members remain skeptical due to the violent racist legacy of lynchings and recent hanging deaths. > We don't have all the facts, but we have enough to say, or to believe, that it was a possible suicide ## Parent's approach to child trauma A parent explained to their 17-year-old son that the death was a possible suicide without graphic details or historical context. > When you see something that disturbing, to refer to Mom and Dad and detach from social media ## Expert advice on child trauma Mental health experts recommend parents ask children how they feel rather than how they're doing to address trauma effectively. > It's better for parents to ask kids how they're feeling ## Suicide rates among Black youth Research shows suicide attempts among Black teens increased by 73% from 1991 to 2017, with a 144% rise when including 2019 data. > the rate increased by 73% for Black teens ## Community desensitization Some children appear desensitized to violent incidents, saying 'it happens' after seeing disturbing content online. > That's actually sad that they're so desensitized ## Expert recommendation for help Parents should seek professional mental health help for children showing signs of distress or self-harm without delay. > you could be waiting for Superman ## Suicide prevention resources If experiencing suicidal thoughts, call or text 988 to contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. > call or text 988 to contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline ## Key takeaway Parents and mental health experts advise discussing traumatic events with children honestly without graphic details to prevent suicide risks among Black youth.