Mensah says. Another risk factor for suicidal ideation is substance dependence—another adverse mental health condition triggered recently by the pandemic. Seide says. Seide points out that searching online for suicide methods is another cause for great concern. It can be difficult to spot suicidal ideation because the signs often overlap with the signs of depression and anxiety.
Experts agree that suicidal ideation can only be successfully treated by getting to the root cause. So if that is depression or bipolar disorder, we would treat that and usually, that would resolve the issue. Treatment would typically include talk therapy but in some cases, inpatient hospital care or medication. Studies have shown that in patients with bipolar disorder, the oral medication lithium can significantly reduce suicide risk.
Scientists also continue to search for new ways to prevent death by suicide. Some questions your doctor may ask include:. You should also expect your doctor to ask you to take a questionnaire. Your answers will help your doctor evaluate your mental health and develop a course of treatment. You doctor may prescribe antidepressants or anti-anxiety medication. These can help you manage your symptoms. You should also expect your treatment plan to include talking to a psychologist or counselor.
Ask your doctor or psychologist about ways to find additional support. They can recommend a support group. They may also have recommendations for how to get help if you use alcohol or drugs that may be contributing to your challenges.
If your risk of suicide is high, you may need to stay in an inpatient treatment facility. This is for your safety. Your outlook for depression or suicidal thoughts will improve with a strong network of friends and family. Getting outside and exercising can also help reduce depression, whether for the change of scenery or the good-feeling chemicals, or endorphins, that you experience during physical activity.
Knowing your triggers for depression and suicidal ideation can help you avoid or better manage these triggers in the future. Call a crisis line or prevention hotline to speak to someone who can help you find the support you need.
People may feel suicidal depression, though the clinical diagnosis is depression with suicidal thoughts. We explore what suicidal depression is and…. Here are steps you can take to protect yourself or a loved one who is considering taking their own life.
Even when life seems hopeless, you can get on the road to feeling better with treatment. You'll learn how to cope with life stresses, as well as to get a new perspective. Sometimes even just taking a nap or going to bed when you're feeling especially low can reset your mood, at least enough to stop the suicidal thoughts.
In addition to eating healthy meals regularly and never skipping meals, get plenty of rest and relaxation to stave off stress and help your body recuperate from days' past. Exercise is also important for relieving stress and improving your emotional well-being.
Make the time to be around people with positive influences on your life and those who make you feel good about yourself. Also, don't forget to give back to your community either through money or your time. Helping others and giving back can be a great way to get out of your own head and to find meaning.
Just as old habits have to die to let go of suicidal ideation, new ideas must take their place to stick. Develop your personal and professional interests. Find fun things to do, volunteer activities, or work that gives you a sense of purpose. Find personal ways to relieve stress levels.
In addition to exercising, you can meditate, use sensory strategies to relax, practice simple breathing exercises , and challenge self-defeating thoughts to help you overcome suicidal thoughts.
Though it may be difficult, studies show that if you're able to talk to someone regularly, particularly in a face-to-face situation like to a close friend or counselor, you're less likely to attempt suicide. You can also talk to your doctor or go directly to the emergency room if you are having suicidal thoughts. Doctors will evaluate your immediate risk and may recommend hospitalization if the risk is severe or refer you to a mental health professional for treatment.
Everything feels more challenging when you're dealing with depression. Get our free guide when you sign up for our newsletter. Cross-national prevalence and risk factors for suicidal ideation, plans and attempts. Br J Psychiatry. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Suicide Rising Across the U. Updated June 7, National Institute of Mental Health. How does anxiety affect Black communities? Learn more here. The National Institute for Mental Health suggest the following tips for helping someone who may be going through a crisis:.
Other tips include keeping some emergency phone numbers at hand. Suicide ideation is a symptom of an underlying problem. Medications and talking therapies, such as cognitive behavior therapy or counseling, can often help. Anyone who is experiencing mental health problems should try to seek treatment as soon as possible.
Once treatment starts, it is important to follow the treatment plan, attend follow-up appointments, and take any medications as a healthcare professional directs. Supporting a person by listening to them and helping them engage with healthcare professionals can make a big difference. Many people experience suicidal thoughts at some time in their life.
Sharing the problem with a healthcare provider, a loved one, or a support worker can often help. If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, it is vital to get help as soon as possible. In the U. According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, it was responsible for over 48, fatalities in
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