Understanding Suicidal Ideation: Causes, Risk Factors & Support

Many people understand that suicide is the act of taking one's life. Ideation refers to the thoughts a person may have about suicide.

Features

• An individual's overall mood and perception are precursors to suicidal ideation. When individuals are depressed suicidal ideation can occur. However, individuals that experience a life crisis can engage in suicidal ideation if they perceive themselves as being in a hopeless situation. For instance, in of HIV patients completed by Kelly, B., MD, PhD, Raphael, B., MD, Judd, F, MD., et al., that examined the predictors and prevalence of suicidal ideation show "higher suicidal ideation was discriminated by the adjustment to HIV diagnosis (greater hopelessness and lower fighting spirit)."

Evaluation

• A comprehensive medical exam identifies the physiological (diabetes) and psychological (depression) factors that cause mood changes in people. This information aids a physician in determining the most effective treatment approach for his patient.

Treatment

• Treatment for suicidal ideation targets the needs of the individual. Therapy, antidepressant medication, or both will be prescribed.

Significance

• Suicidal ideation can occur in anyone. The number of individuals that engage in suicidal ideation is unknown due to lack of self report. According to Kessler, Robert, C., PhD; Bergland, Patricia, MBA; Borges, Guilherme, PhD; et.al. Studies need to be completed that identify trends in individuals that engage in suicidal ideation to improve treatment and "to reduce suicide- related behaviors". (See reference 2)

Considerations

• Suicidal ideation indicates that underlying problems such as bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, etc., may be present.

Warning

• Determining whether or not a threat of suicide is real should be done by a physician or mental health professional.