Abstract PROBLEM: If and how family support and self‐esteem might interact to protect against adolescent suicide risk is not well understood. METHODS: Hierarchical multiple regression was used to examine the moderating effect of family support on the relationship between self‐esteem and suicide risk behaviors among potential high school dropouts (N = 849), using questionnaires and in‐depth assessment interviews. FINDINGS: Family support moderated the impact of self‐esteem on suicide risk; the ameliorating effect of self‐esteem was stronger among adolescents with low versus high family support. CONCLUSIONS: Self‐esteem influences adolescent suicide risk behaviors for youth with low as well as high family support. Interventions designed to strengthen both self‐esteem and support resources are appropriate.