When a person enters into a hopeless state where they feel there is no way out, suicide can enter their mind as a desperate resort. Suicidal ideation is different from suicidal intention**. Ideation refers to thinking about suicide and contemplating it without having a plan to actually act it out. Suicidal intention refers to a person who has a plan and the means to carry out that plan.
Sometimes, a person may experience an extremely embarrassing moment, and the thought, “I wish I was dead” may run through their mind. This is not suicidal ideation. Suicidal ideation usually occurs alongside moments of severe depression or self-harm when in a state of extreme emotional distress.
Suicidal ideation is typically an indicator of significant underlying issues that should be addressed as soon as possible. These issues may include environmental, behavioral, and even chemical components that need treatment to prevent the person from moving toward planning to act out a suicide.
Every person is worthy of life. The dark spaces that come alongside suicidal ideation can be treated. Behavioral interventions and medication are both methods used to successfully treat the issues that cause suicidal ideation and help people move toward healthy, fulfilling lives.
I offer in-person therapy and counseling in Seabrook, TX and virtual telehealth therapy for Texas residents. If you are experiencing suicidal ideation and this is not an immediate emergency, give me a call or set up a free 15-minute consultation through our online portal.
**If this is an emergency, you are actively suicidal, or you are experiencing extreme emotional distress, please call 9-1-1 or the suicide hotline at 800-273-8255 for immediate, 24-hour assistance**
