Family share ADHD awareness message after 12-year-old’s death by suicide
The 12-year-old Kaiyah Kennedy died by suicide on 2 October, marking the second tragic loss within days at a Queensland junior rugby league club; his teammate Treyvon Te Tahi Bradshaw, 13, died on 26 September. Kaiyah's family have spoken publicly about their loss to raise awareness about ADHD and children's mental health, hoping their story will help other families struggling with these issues.
Kaiyah was described by his family as "wild, free, mischievous, hilarious and completely unforgettable," but behind his outgoing personality he struggled with ADHD, a condition his family emphasised is far more complex than popular stereotypes suggest. They stressed that children with ADHD can experience intense emotional regulation difficulties, extreme mood swings and impulse control issues. The family also pointed out that struggling with mental health does not indicate poor parenting or family dysfunction; even with parental support and love, children can face internal battles others cannot see.
- Two young footballers from same club died by suicide within days
- Family advocates for greater understanding of ADHD and its emotional impact
- Complex condition can cause intense emotions children struggle to regulate
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A 12-year-old boy called Kaiyah Kennedy died by suicide on 2 October, the second tragedy at a Queensland junior rugby league club in days after his teammate, 13-year-old Treyvon Te Tahi Bradshaw, died on 26 September. Kaiyah's family have chosen to speak publicly about their loss to raise awareness of ADHD and children's mental health.
Kaiyah was known as a lively, funny and memorable person, but he lived with ADHD, a condition that affected how he managed his emotions and controlled impulses. His family say that ADHD is more complex and serious than many people understand, and that children with the condition can experience intense mood swings and difficulty managing their feelings.
The family have emphasised that mental health struggles in children are not caused by poor parenting or family problems, and that a loving, supportive home cannot always prevent the internal battles a child may face. By sharing their story, they hope to help other families who are dealing with similar challenges.
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Originally published by Daily Mail as “Family of footy-mad boy, 12, who died by suicide share heartbreaking tribute and message about ADHD after devastating loss”.