What is what to do when your son threatens to kill you?

It is crucial to take immediate action when your son threatens to kill you. Your safety, and potentially his, is at serious risk. Here's what you should do:

1. Ensure Immediate Safety:

   • Remove yourself from the situation: If possible, leave the house or area where the threat was made. Go to a safe location, such as a friend's house, a family member's home, or even a public place.
   • Do not engage in arguments: Arguing or trying to reason with him in the moment could escalate the situation.
   • Document everything: If you can do so safely, document the threats made, including the date, time, and specific words used. This documentation can be valuable if you need to get a restraining order or involve law enforcement.

2. Contact Law Enforcement:

   • Call 911 (or your local emergency number): A threat of violence is a serious matter and should be reported to the police immediately. Let them know that your son has threatened to kill you.
   • Explain the situation calmly and clearly: Provide the police with as much information as possible, including your son's location, any weapons he may have access to, and any history of violence or mental health issues.
   • Follow their instructions: Cooperate fully with the police and follow any instructions they give you.

3. Seek Legal Protection:

   • Consider a restraining order/protection order: Depending on your location, you may be able to obtain a restraining order or protection order against your son. This legal order can prevent him from contacting you or coming near you. Consult with an attorney to understand your options. Learn more about restraining orders here: https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Restraining%20Orders.

4. Mental Health Evaluation and Support:

   • Mental health professional: Your son needs a mental health evaluation by a qualified professional. Report his behavior to his current doctor or therapist if he has one. If he does not, contact mental health services in your area.
   • Possible Involuntary Commitment: Depending on the severity of the threat and his mental state, he might meet the criteria for involuntary commitment to a psychiatric facility. Law enforcement or mental health professionals can help determine if this is necessary.
   • Seek Family Therapy: After the immediate crisis has been resolved, consider family therapy to address the underlying issues contributing to the problem. You can learn about different therapy approaches here: https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Therapy.

5. Personal Support:

   • Reach out to trusted friends and family: Share what you are going through with people you trust. They can offer emotional support and practical assistance.
   • Consider a support group: A support group for parents dealing with difficult children can provide a safe space to share your experiences and learn from others.
   • Therapy for yourself: Processing the trauma of being threatened by your own child can be incredibly difficult. Seek therapy or counseling to help you cope.

6. Address Potential Contributing Factors:

   • Substance Abuse: Is substance abuse a factor? Substance use can greatly affect behavior and mental state.
   • Underlying mental health conditions: Mental disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia can contribute to aggressive behavior.
   • Past Trauma: Has your son experienced any past trauma? Past trauma may be triggering his behavior.

Important Considerations:

• Take all threats seriously: Even if your son has never been violent before, a threat of this nature should not be ignored.
• Prioritize your safety: Your well-being is paramount. Do not hesitate to take whatever steps are necessary to protect yourself.
• Do not blame yourself: You are not responsible for your son's actions.
• Domestic violence: Understand that threats of homicide can be considered domestic violence. Learn more about domestic violence here: https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Domestic%20Violence.
• Suicide Prevention: Be alert to any statements suggesting that your son may harm himself as well.

Remember, you are not alone. Seek help from the resources listed above to navigate this difficult situation.

Disclaimer: This information is not a substitute for professional legal or mental health advice. Always seek the guidance of qualified professionals for specific concerns.