When a person has ongoing thoughts of wanting to end their life, it is known as suicidal ideation. These negative thoughts can fluctuate in intensity, and they may be brief or all-consuming. No matter the severity or frequency, thoughts of suicide can make it extremely difficult for a person to function in their daily life.
At Henry Ford Behavioral Health Hospital, located in West Bloomfield, Michigan, we offer suicidal ideation treatment for adolescents and adults age 18 and older. If a person is battling suicidal thoughts, it is essential for them to seek help immediately.
If you are experiencing suicidal ideation, please call 911 or reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline) by texting or dialing 988.
Understanding Suicidal Ideation
Suicide is a preventable, tragic response to feelings of hopelessness and despair, and suicidal ideation should always be taken seriously.
Having suicidal thoughts does not necessarily mean that a person truly wants to end their life, but it is a clear indication that they are deeply hurting. Research shows that people who have made suicide attempts think differently while they are in a suicidal state. Because of extreme emotional distress, it can be difficult for them to make sound decisions or identify other solutions.
While a person who is experiencing suicidal ideation may not act on their thoughts, the potential for escalation is too great to ignore any red flags.
If someone talks about having suicidal thoughts, it may be a sign that they are asking for help, and they should be taken seriously. It is crucial to engage in a serious conversation if this happens. Helping a person who has suicidal thoughts seek support can save their life.
Suicidal Ideation Statistics
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that more than 700,000 people die by suicide each year. However, this number does not take into account the number of people who struggle with suicidal ideation or have tried to end their lives.
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) states that in 2020 alone, there were approximately 1.2 million suicide attempts among the U.S. adult population.
Available data on death by suicide and suicide attempts may not give us an accurate understanding of the size of the population that is affected by suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Due to the sensitive nature of the topic, some individuals may not feel comfortable sharing that they are struggling with suicidal ideation, and the number of suicide attempts may be underreported.
Signs & Symptoms of Suicidal Ideation
Though experiencing suicidal ideation does not always mean that a person will engage in suicidal behavior, having suicidal thoughts can be a sign that they need help.
Because many people who have these negative thoughts are not willing to openly talk about their pain, it is important to pay close attention to the warning signs of suicidal ideation so that you can help anyone who is suffering seek the care they need. Signs and symptoms of suicidal ideation may include:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Low self-esteem
- Self-harm
- Intense mood swings
- Feelings of helplessness
- Wanting to be left alone
- Impulsive behaviors
- Shifts in eating habits
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Preoccupation with death
- Getting affairs in order, such as making a will
- Previous suicide attempts
Suicidal ideation can also be a symptom of other mental health concerns, which is another important reason to seek help from qualified professionals at a suicidal ideation treatment center like Henry Ford Behavioral Health Hospital.
Effects of Suicidal Ideation
If left untreated, suicidal ideation may negatively affect a person’s life in devastating ways. Effects of suicidal ideation can include:
- Shame
- Guilt
- Anger
- Self-loathing
- Employment challenges
- Strained relationships
People who do not receive treatment for suicidal ideation can be at great risk for engaging in suicidal behavior, which can lead to severe physical harm. The most tragic consequence of not receiving treatment is the possibility of the person acting on their thoughts and ultimately dying by suicide.
Benefits of Getting Suicidal Ideation Treatment
Seeking treatment for suicidal ideation can be a lifesaving decision. When someone is experiencing persistent thoughts of suicide, it can be difficult for them to see a future free of their distress. However, by getting professional care at a suicidal ideation treatment center like Henry Ford Behavioral Health Hospital, patients can come to understand why they are feeling the way they are and learn how to change their thought processes.
Additional benefits of getting treatment for suicidal ideation can include:
- The person is safe and supported. They do not have access to anything that can harm them, and they are surrounded by compassionate professionals who are ready to help.
- The person has an opportunity to explore the underlying causes of the thoughts they are having, which could be the presence of a mental health disorder like depression or anxiety. By identifying possible causes of their distressing thoughts, it can make the individual feel more empowered to learn ways to adjust their thinking patterns. They can come to understand that they are not at fault for the way they feel.
- The person can begin developing coping strategies by participating in therapies that are designed to help them learn practical skills and techniques to manage difficult emotions.
- The person can create a safety plan. This plan can include steps they can take when they start to feel overwhelmed, ways they can reach out for help, and resources they can contact in times of crisis.
- The person can begin rebuilding their self-esteem. When someone is struggling with suicidal ideation, it is not uncommon for them to lose their sense of self-worth. While in treatment, they can begin rebuilding that sense of self-worth by setting goals for the future and fostering a renewed sense of purpose.
- The person can learn how to improve communication and build healthy relationships. While in treatment, they will be encouraged to work on open communication, which can help improve their relationships with family and friends. Feeling connected with others can eliminate feelings of isolation and grow their sense of belonging.
Why Choose Our Suicidal Ideation Treatment Center
Reaching out for help can be challenging, but it is a brave and essential step. Treatment offers a space where you can be heard, understood, and supported, offering hope and a way forward to a brighter future.
By receiving individualized treatment at Henry Ford Behavioral Health Hospital, you can learn techniques for coping with negative thoughts and begin your journey to healing. We will create a customized treatment plan specifically for you that will lay the foundation for lasting healing.
Depending on your specific needs, your treatment plan may include the following:
- Medication management services
- Individual therapy
- Family therapy
- Group therapy
- Experiential therapies
- Basic medical care (when needed)
Because suicidal ideation can be a symptom of mental illnesses, it is crucial to seek the help of a qualified professional if you have thoughts of suicide. Our team can provide services that address suicidal ideation as well as other symptoms that may be present.
Finding the Right Suicidal Ideation Treatment Center
Suicidal ideation is a delicate topic that deserves the utmost attention. At our treatment place in West Bloomfield, Michigan, you can receive round-the-clock care that addresses your emotional needs.
Our admissions process includes a thorough evaluation that will assess your current symptoms and medical history. With this information, our staff can determine therapeutic elements to include in your treatment plan that may best support you throughout the treatment process.
We want to help you continue to achieve your goals after treatment ends. To do that, we will provide you with an aftercare plan to help you build on the progress you made at our suicidal ideation treatment center. We begin planning for discharge on the day of admission and continually adjust recommendations as needed.
With support from our compassionate team, you can learn to manage your symptoms and begin healing.
This content was written on behalf of and reviewed by the clinical staff at Henry Ford Behavioral Health Hospital.