How Suicidality Hides: The Subtle Ways Suicidal Thoughts Manifest
- Priscella Shreve
- Mar 19
- 2 min read
Many people associate suicidal thoughts with actively planning to take one’s life, but suicidality often presents in more subtle, less obvious ways. These hidden forms of suicidal ideation can still take a toll on mental health, draining energy, increasing isolation, and deepening feelings of hopelessness.
Understanding the different ways suicidal thoughts can manifest is crucial in recognizing when you or someone you love may need support. So, what should you look out for? And most importantly, what can you do to manage these thoughts and seek help?
Different forms of Suicidal Thoughts
Active Suicidal Ideation: involves direct thoughts of suicide, including forming a plan or seeking out means to end one’s life.
Examples of this form of suicidal ideation:
Seeking out ways to commit suicide, such as obtaining pills.
Actively thinking about death and wanting to die.
Experiencing these thoughts multiple times a day can sap your energy. It can overshadow any positive emotions you may be feeling while going about your day. Left unaddressed, these thoughts can lead to further withdrawal and an overall decline in mental health.
Passive Suicidal Ideation: thoughts of suicide without formulating plans to commit suicide.
Examples of this form of suicidal ideation:
“I wish I would just never wake up”
“I hope a car hits me”
“I make everyone’s life harder, They would be better off without me”
Even if these thoughts don’t involve taking action, they indicate you’re struggling with your self-worth and mental health. This can escalate into active suicidal ideation and formulating a plan to take your own life. Recognizing these thoughts as warning signs is the first step toward getting help.
How to manage Suicidal Ideations
Support System
Having a support system of loved ones can help you work on blunting your suicidal ideations. Being honest and upfront with the people in your life that you’re struggling can help you feel less isolated and prevent withdrawal, which often worsens your mental health.
Avoid substance use
Turning to alcohol or drugs to numb emotional pain may seem like an escape, but substance use can intensify suicidal thoughts and lead to greater instability. Prioritizing sobriety can help create a more stable foundation for healing.
Therapy
Therapy is one of the most effective ways to manage suicidal ideation. They can teach you coping mechanisms to work on suicidal ideations and possible root causes for your depression. Regular therapy sessions can be life-changing and improve mental well-being.
Suicidal ideations, whether passive or active, are difficult to handle, especially when you are dealing with them every day. If you or someone you know are struggling, please reach out to Lifecare Wellness Counseling. You deserve a place to be heard and to feel better. To start your mental health journey reach out and book an appointment today.
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