September is Suicide Awareness Month
Suicidal and morbid thoughts can manifest in various ways, ranging from fleeting, passive thoughts about death to active planning of suicide. Understanding these thoughts and their impact is crucial for individuals experiencing them as well as for those supporting loved ones.
Types of Suicidal and Morbid Thoughts
Passive Suicidal Thoughts: Having thoughts about not wanting to live or wishing to be dead without actively planning to end one’s life.
Active Suicidal Thoughts: Involves detailed thinking about how to die by suicide, including plans and intent.
Morbid Thoughts: These include recurrent preoccupations with death or dying, which may signal underlying mental health concerns such as depression or anxiety.
How Suicidal Thoughts Affect People
Suicidal ideation often accompanies intense feelings of hopelessness, despair, and disconnection. It can severely impair daily functioning, relationships, and overall mental health. People may feel trapped or believe that others would be better off without them.
Warning Signs of Suicidality
According to the American Psychological Association (APA), key warning signs include:
Talking about wanting to die or to kill oneself
Expressing feelings of hopelessness or having no purpose
Withdrawing from friends, family, and activities
Increased substance use
Extreme mood swings or sudden calmness after a period of depression
Giving away possessions or saying goodbye
video provided by Psych2Go about suicidal ideation
How to Seek Help
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts:
Contact a mental health professional. The North Jersey Center for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy offers specialized care for children, adolescents, teens, and adults.
Reach out to emergency services, a crisis center, or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
Call or text 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Supporting Yourself or Others
Listen and Validate: Offer a non-judgmental ear and acknowledge the person’s pain.
Encourage Professional Support: Gently suggest and assist in connecting with mental health providers.
Stay Connected: Regular contact and check-ins can provide a vital lifeline.
Create a Safety Plan: Help identify triggers and coping strategies, and remove access to means of self-harm.
For ongoing support and treatment options, consulting professionals trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based approaches can be highly effective in addressing suicidal thoughts and improving mental health outcomes.
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.