Suicidal Ideation
Suicidal ideation, often referred to as “suicidal thoughts,” encompasses a wide range of contemplations, wishes, and preoccupations with death and suicide. It is a symptom associated with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, but it can also occur in individuals without any mental illness. If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal ideation with a mild to moderate risk level, it is important to seek help from an outpatient mental health facility, such as Quest Wellness Center.
In cases of active suicidal thoughts or plans, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 (formerly 1-800-273-8255). If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 911. At Quest Wellness Center, when a patient arrives with suicidality issues, they are placed in our safe treatment environment, where they are closely monitored and evaluated for their level of suicidality. We address suicidal ideations through a personalized approach tailored to each patient. We offer Intensive Outpatient (IOP) and Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP), along with various psychotherapeutic modalities to effectively treat suicidal ideations.
Suicidal Ideation Assessment
During the assessment process at Quest Wellness Center, patients are asked to complete a safety contract, which involves a thorough evaluation of their suicidal thoughts. Patients rate the intensity of their urges, indicate whether they have a plan, assess whether they have the means to carry out that plan, and disclose their intentions regarding potential attempts. Additionally, questions regarding any previous suicidal thoughts or attempts are posed.
The Safety Contract Process
After the assessment, patients sign a written safety contract that outlines a verbal agreement to remain safe. This contract explains our policies regarding suicidality and the actions that will be taken if a client makes a suicide attempt, such as transferring to a higher level of inpatient care.
This proactive measure ensures that patients feel supported while also setting clear boundaries for safety.
Therapy Options for Suicidal Ideation
At Quest Wellness Center, therapeutic treatment is a cornerstone of recovery from suicidal ideation. Our mental health professionals provide individualized and group-based interventions.
Individual Therapy
Individual therapy sessions are available to help explore the underlying reasons that may have contributed to the development of suicidal thoughts. At our clinic, you and your therapist can work together to understand the causes of your emotional pain, learn healthier ways to manage stress, identify triggers for relapse, and develop strategies to cope with suicidal urges.
Group and Family Therapy
Through these therapy models, patients gain both personal coping tools and supportive networks for recovery.
Medication and Psychotherapeutic Modalities
Our comprehensive approach includes both medical and psychotherapeutic strategies tailored to the unique needs of each patient.
Medication Management
Our team evaluates patients to determine the need for medication. Depending on individual circumstances, the treatment plan may include medications to alleviate symptoms. Drugs such as antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and mood stabilizers can help reduce symptoms and lessen suicidal urges. All medication usage at Quest is closely monitored and adjusted as necessary.
Psychotherapeutic Modalities
At Quest Wellness Center, patients are introduced to a variety of psychotherapeutic modalities, equipping them with tools to manage strong emotions and mood changes. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) may be employed to diminish feelings of hopelessness and reduce suicide attempts. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is also utilized to manage overwhelming emotions.
Understanding Suicide
Suicide, the act of taking one’s own life, is a tragic response to overwhelming life situations. The saddest part is that it is often preventable with proper treatment. If you are considering suicide or know someone who is feeling suicidal, please seek help—doing so could save a life, whether it’s yours or someone else’s.
Suicide as a Public Health Crisis
Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States and the 2nd leading cause of death among individuals aged 10 to 34. The severity of this issue is reflected in the fact that every 11 minutes, someone loses their life to suicide.
Populations at Higher Risk
Individuals living in rural areas compared to urban populations,
LGBTQ adults and youth, at higher risk compared to heterosexual peers,
People with untreated or co-occurring mental health disorders,
By understanding these factors, prevention efforts can be better tailored to at-risk groups.
Begin Healing at Quest Wellness Center
By understanding the issues surrounding suicide and mental health, we can meaningfully contribute to suicide prevention efforts, assist those in crisis, and transform the conversation about suicide.
Tragically, many cases of suicide go unreported due to stigma, religious beliefs, and other concerns. Therefore, the true extent of the issue may be even graver than statistics suggest. At Quest Wellness Center, we are committed to addressing suicidal ideation with compassion, evidence-based care, and ongoing support.
If you or someone you love is struggling with suicidal thoughts, know that healing and hope are possible. Reach out today and begin your journey toward safety, stability, and emotional well-being.
