Suicidal ideation isn’t classified as a mental health disorder. But this clinical term that refers to someone’s thoughts of taking their own life must still be taken very seriously.
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) recommends that if you feel like you’re in immediate danger of death by suicide, you should text NAMI at 741741 or contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255.
Any thoughts of suicide should be taken seriously, but 90% of those who have made a suicide attempt go on living and engaging with life, according to NAMI. At Montrose Behavioral Health Hospital, we provide comprehensive treatment for people who are struggling with suicidal ideation that co-occurs with a mental health concern.
Signs & Symptoms of Suicidal Ideation
Many people who are living with suicidal ideation might be open about what they’re considering. But for plenty of others, the opposite is true, and they desperately try to hide signs of danger.
Signs and symptoms of suicidal ideation include:
- Noticeable mood swings
- Social withdrawal
- A preoccupation with violence or death
- Increased use of alcohol or other substances
- Worsening self-image
- Significant changes in sleep patterns or other routines
- Increased participation in risky activities
- Loss of interest in once enjoyable pastimes
If you’re displaying any of these symptoms, it’s critical to seek professional help at a qualified suicidal ideation treatment place as soon as possible. The right treatment provider can help you understand the dangers of suicidal ideation and show you that your life is worth living.
Suicidal Ideation Statistics
Because suicidal ideation refers to a series of thoughts, it’s hard to determine exactly how prevalent this potentially deadly condition is.
But by looking at the numbers of suicide attempts and deaths by suicide across the country, it’s easier to see how widespread the problem is.
- According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), 45,979 Americans died by suicide in 2020, making it the 12th-leading cause of death.
- AFSP reports that there were an estimated 1.2 million suicide attempts in 2020.
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that suicide was the second-leading cause of death among people ages 10-34 and the fourth-leading cause of death among people ages 35-44.
- Firearms accounted for 52.83% of suicide deaths in 2020.
- Men die by suicide at a rate nearly four times that of women, with the highest rate of suicide belonging to middle-aged white men, per AFSP.
Potential Effects of Suicidal Ideation
Death by suicide is the clearest and most tragic outcome of suicidal ideation. But there are many other damaging effects suicidal ideation can have on a person if left untreated, including:
- Trouble maintaining relationships with loved ones
- Pervasive sense of hopelessness
- Onset or worsening of other mental health concerns
- Academic troubles
- Inability to find a job or stay employed
- Medical complications due to lack of self-care
There’s no guarantee that you’ll experience these effects. But for someone who is considering taking their own life, pursuing professional intervention at a suicidal ideation treatment center can make an immediate and lasting difference.
The Benefits of Suicidal Ideation Treatment
Anyone who is battling suicidal ideation can feel hopeless and alone. With an increased sense of isolation, you can feel like there’s no alternative and no other answer.
But when you decide to receive care at a suicidal ideation treatment place, you’ll quickly be reminded how valuable your life is and why it’s worth fighting for. You’ll meet others who are experiencing similar symptoms of suicidal ideation and the negative thought patterns that accompany them. And you can gain the perspective of knowing that you’re not alone. By walking on this journey with others, you can develop bonds and friendships that will help you move forward.
You’ll also benefit from working with compassionate professionals who will guide you through the clinical aspects of your time in treatment. They’ll help develop your suicidal ideation treatment plan, and they’ll use their expert knowledge to provide you with the foundation for a happier, more fulfilling life.
How to Find the Right Suicidal Ideation Treatment Center
Everyone who struggles with suicidal ideation has a unique experience. That’s why it’s critical to find a suicidal ideation treatment center that takes into account your individual journey and specific needs.
Questions to ask when looking for a suicidal ideation treatment place include:
- How does the admissions process work?
- What levels of care are offered?
- Will I receive a treatment plan that is customized to my needs?
- What type of professionals will I work with during my time in treatment?
- Are there plans in place for me to continue healing after discharge?
At Montrose Behavioral Health Hospital, you’ll find a streamlined admissions process that will help identify the level of care that’s right for your needs. You’ll receive a personalized treatment plan that our staff of clinicians puts together based on your medical history and current goals. And from the time you enter treatment, we’ll begin planning for your discharge with a detailed continuing care plan.
Therapies Used in Co-Occurring Suicidal Ideation Treatment
Once you complete our thorough assessment, we’ll be able to better understand your history with mental health concerns and determine the level of care that will best suit you at Montrose Behavioral Health Hospital.
Our staff will put together your personalized treatment plan that reflects your journey with co-occurring suicidal ideation and a mental health concern. But it will contain some common elements, such as:
- Basic medical care provided by doctors and nurses
- Medication management services to monitor any medication you may be taking
- Family therapy
- Group therapy
- Individual therapy
- Detoxification services if you are also struggling with a substance use disorder
These services will incorporate elements of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and, if applicable, the 12-Step model of recovery. We’ll note what works best for you and adjust your treatment plan accordingly.
Suicidal ideation that co-occurs with a mental illness can make you feel alone and scared. But by receiving treatment at Montrose Behavioral Health Hospital, you can recognize your symptoms, develop strategies for healing, and pursue the healthier life that’s right in front of you.
This content was written on behalf of and reviewed by the clinical staff at Montrose Behavioral Health Hospital.