Suicidal thoughts, which are known as suicidal ideation, are reoccurring thoughts about killing oneself. Sometimes these thoughts are arranged as a detailed plan, and other times they are just ideas that arise in one’s mind about how they might commit suicide. It is completely natural to have thoughts on killing oneself, and most people who do have suicidal thoughts never follow through. It is important to note, however, that excessive thoughts on suicide should be regarded as something worthy of attention. If you find that you are considering suicide multiple times a day, it is probably time to seek outside assistance.

Causes

People tend to develop suicidal ideation when they feel emotionally overwhelmed by current circumstances in their lives. Sometimes called “escape fantasies,” it makes sense that when things feel unmanageable, our minds tend to gravitate to considering the fastest way to clear up the stress and tension.

Treatment

Fortunately, psychotherapy can help properly contextualize problems. Often therapy can help us see that our current stressors in life are in fact, only temporary. Therapy can also help us to learn how to better manage stress, tension, and emotional pain – it doesn’t promise to take away life’s problems, but it can make our situations seem immanently more workable.

If you are considering suicide in this moment, the National Suicide Prevention Hotline is available 24 hours a day: 1-800-273-8255. A trained professional will take your anonymous call immediately.

We Can Help

Open Path’s therapists offer beneficial services that encourage insight, self-reflection, and healthy coping mechanisms. Many work with people who are considering suicide or other self-harming behaviors. They can offer hope and assistance to you on your journey to feeling less pain, and more fulfillment in life.

Interested in seeing one of our therapists? Start your search here.

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