Suicidal Thoughts

You have probably landed on this page for a reason. You or someone that you love has probably had thoughts of taking their own life. Suicidal thoughts are more common than you would imagine. One of the greatest failures of the mental health profession is in creating a false sense of fear around discussing the topic. As a therapist I have a legal, ethical, and moral obligation to keep you safe. As a therapist I also believe that it is my responsibility to recognize your feelings and appreciate that a thought may not mean that you are ready to act.

Thoughts of suicide and comments about such thoughts should always be taken seriously. Often people think that taking this seriously means a hospitalization or extreme means. In truth, suicidal thoughts should and can be viewed as a symptom. Consider this metaphor; the thermometer.

 

• “I’m having trouble enjoying my life. I just seem to be in a funk that I can’t get out of.”: Low grade fever that needs to be watched
• “I’m having trouble doing my everyday chores. I haven’t been able to go to work, take a shower, and I feel weighed down.” The Fever is rising better watch this.
• “I’m having thoughts of suicide. I don’t know if I can keep going like this. I just don’t want to be here anymore.” The fever is getting high we need to get this evaluated
• “I don’t want to live anymore. I have a plan and I am going to do it tonight when no one is home.” This fever is out of control and we need emergency medical attention

The metaphor may seem a bit strange, but it is very much true. If you are open and honest with how you are feeling and what you are experiencing, then a therapist should do their best to respect your wishes regarding interventions. So, what does this look like? As a therapist I would ask that you work to help put together a safety plan. A safety plan is how you and your support system can help you to manage your current symptoms while keeping you safe. The safety plan usually includes a plan for if the symptoms or “fever” worsens. This might mean that you call your therapist, connect with a suicide hotline, or if needed go to the nearest hospital.

 

Suicide is never to be taken lightly. Let’s go over some of the facts that the National Institute of Mental Health has published on suicide. Suicide is the tenth leading cause of death in the United States and claimed over 47,000 lives in 2017. In those between the ages of 10-34 suicide was the second leading cause of death. There are twice as many lives taken by suicide as there are homicide. Suicide is a BIG deal.

So, what can you do if you or someone you know is at risk for suicide, contemplating suicide, or has made worrisome comments? Start with listening. Sometimes the most important thing that a person needs is to not feel alone and isolated. Consider the safety of your home and space. Firearms are the leading method of suicide followed by suffocation, and poisoning. Make sure weapons are removed and that potential poisons (medications, chemicals) are secured. Encourage the individual to reach out for support. If they are under the care of a provider that can be a great place to start. The National Suicide Hotline 1-800-273-8255 and Crisis Text Line (text Hello to 741-741) are available 24/7. Make sure to continually listen, offer support but be careful not to give advice. It’s hard because we often want to fix the situation. You can’t as a friend or professional take away all that pain, but you can be a support. Be patient and let them take it at their own pace. This will be hard on you and the person you are trying to support be respectful of all the emotions and go slow. As always if you feel that you, yourself, or anyone else are in imminent danger contact the 911 or go to the emergency room.

The intention of this article is to inform and destigmatize. Suicide is a real threat and one that needs to be addressed but there are many ways to support someone who is struggling. It is important that if you are having these thoughts that you feel safe to come forward. Contacting one of the hotlines, talking with your therapist, calling your doctor does not necessarily mean that you will be admitted to a hospital. The primary goal for those that regularly work crisis is to de-escalate the situation. You are in pain, you are scared, you may feel alone, the goal is to offer support not more pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out. Make sure to have these important conversations with the people in your life. Suicide is tragic. Your life is important. Be informed. Below are some resources that you can utilize to learn more about the risks of suicide and how to get help. If you are looking for a therapist please feel free to contact us.

HELP:

https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/

https://www.crisistextline.org/

Suicide Facts:

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/suicide.shtml