Is it ethical for a college counselor to inform a minor's parent about the minor's suicide attempt?

In situations involving a minor's mental health, the primary consideration is the well-being and safety of the minor. If a college counselor believes that informing the minor's parent about a suicide attempt is crucial to ensuring appropriate support and care for the minor, it is ethical to do so in the best interest of the minor.

When a minor is in a state of crisis, especially concerning suicidal ideation or behavior, the counselor may have an ethical obligation to take steps that prioritize the minor’s safety. By informing the parent, the counselor can facilitate necessary interventions or support structures that the minor may not be able to access alone. It is essential for mental health professionals to weigh the potential harms of maintaining confidentiality against the potential risks of not informing a parent in situations that could jeopardize the minor's safety.

Balancing confidentiality with parental involvement can be challenging, but the overarching responsibility to protect the minor's well-being can justify the counselor's decision to inform the parent. This approach aligns with ethical standards that prioritize safeguarding clients, especially vulnerable populations such as minors.