Suicidal thoughts
What are suicidal thoughts?
Suicidal thoughts (also referred to as suicidal ideation) is where a person thinks about taking their own life. It may range from fleeting thoughts to detailed planning, role-playing (acting out the suicide without actually doing it), and even failed attempts.
Many people experience suicidal thoughts at some point in their life, but most never seriously consider killing themselves. However, frequent or intense suicidal thoughts are a risk factor for suicide.
It is important to remember that there is always help available for people contemplating suicide.
Why do people have suicidal thoughts?
People may experience suicidal thoughts for a number of reasons. It may occur due to intense emotional distress, perhaps caused by a traumatic event such as the death of a loved one, the end of an important relationship, abuse, chronic illness, or being in a war zone. The individual’s self-esteem may be so low that they feel their life has no value. Others may feel that the emotional pain they are experiencing is too much to bear and that dying would be easier. Some blame themselves in some way and may think they don’t deserve to live.
Suicidal ideation is associated with mood disorders such as depression, and other mental health disorders. Patients with borderline personality disorder tend to experience suicidal thoughts and feelings and may exhibit self-destructive and even suicidal behaviour.
How do I get help for suicidal thoughts?
If you are experiencing a lot of suicidal thoughts, it is important to seek help. Often, the first step is talking about how you are feeling. This may be to a close friend or family member, or to someone you trust, such as a teacher. There are also organisations that exist to help people in this situation, such as the Samaritans and Mind.
What specialist can help to treat suicidal thoughts?
It is highly advised that patients having frequent suicidal thoughts speak to their GP, who may be able to help diagnose a mental health disorder and may be able to refer the patient to a psychiatrist, psychologist, or counsellor who can help the patient overcome the problem.
Overcoming suicidal ideation
By Dr Iqbal Mohiuddin
2024-11-22
Experiencing thoughts of ending your own life can be profoundly distressing and frightening. It's crucial to understand that these thoughts do not define you as a person but indicate that you are enduring significant emotional distress. The Mental Health Foundation reports that 1 in 5 adults in the UK have had suicidal thoughts at some point in their lives. Data from the Office for National Statistics shows that in 2022, the UK suicide rate was 10.5 per 100,000 people, with the rate for men at 16.1 and for women at 5.3, marking a slight increase from 2021. The highest suicide rates are seen in men aged 45-49, followed by those aged 50-54. Renowned consultant psychiatrist Dr Iqbal Mohiuddin explores effective strategies for managing suicidal thoughts, fostering hope, and preventing suicide. See more
How you can help someone with suicidal feelings
By Dr Stefania Bonaccorso
2024-11-21
All of us are capable of suffering from mental health problems, and sometimes this can lead to suicidal thoughts and feelings. These will vary in terms of their intensity and how long they last for, but if you suspect someone you know is suffering, there are things you can do and should do to help. Dr Stefania Bonaccorso, an expert psychiatrist, addresses this difficult topic and gives her advice on what to do if you are ever in a situation where someone is talking about ending their life. See more
Am I depressed? Treating and identifying the signs of depression
By Dr Edwin Ugoh
2024-11-20
Depression is a mood disorder characterised by low mood for a persistent amount of time, having a significant effect on your everyday life. However, treatments and therapies are available to help people struggling with depression to cope. Dr Edwin Ugoh, a leading psychiatrist, explains in detail what depression is and what can be done to beat it. See more
COVID-19 headlines & tough lockdowns - how they’re taking a toll on our mental health
By Professor Ben Green
2024-11-07
The news has very much been focused on how we, the general public, can physically protect ourselves from the coronavirus. However, as leading psychiatrist Professor Ben Green points out, the news often neglects to understand the effects their messages have on us and those more vulnerable to mental health conditions. See more
Experts in Suicidal thoughts
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Dr Elena Manafi
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