Suicidal Ideation

What is it?

Suicide, or the taking of one's own life, is responsible for approximately 31,000 deaths annually in the United States. Suicide prevention is the important process of recognizing the warning signs and then successfully seeking the proper help for that individual.

What causes suicide?

There appears to be links between attempted suicides and lower levels of the brain chemical Serotonin. Other causes include financial stress, depression, drug and/or alcohol abuse (drugs and alcohol can intensify feelings of loneliness or depression), social problems, and mental illnesses.

How can I tell when someone might be suicidal?

People who are contemplating suicide may provide you with verbal warnings. Any statements like "I'm going to kill myself" or "I might as well be dead" need to be taken most seriously. Less obvious statements like, "I won't be a problem for you much longer" or " I guess nothing matters anymore" can also be warning statements of someone's intent. Some other non-verbal warning signs that a person might be suicidal include:

• Frequently tired
• Altered sleeping (insomnia or oversleeping) or eating habits
• Struggling in school
• Becomes socially withdrawn
• Becomes violent or rebellious
• Feelings of guilt or shame
• Runs away
• Substance abuse
• Suddenly cheerful after prolonged depression
• Neglect of their personal appearance
• Begin to act differently
• Seem always bored or have difficulty concentrating
• Starts giving away some cherished items (literally putting affairs in order)
• Frequently complaints about physical pains that could be tied to mental stress
• No longer enjoy activities that they previously thought were fun

How do you help a suicidal person?

Suicide, generally the result of depression and suicidal thoughts, is preventable and can be treated with the right help. Some keys are talking with that person about suicide (this doesn't reinforce their desire to commit suicide, but rather lets them know you care) and strongly directing them to get immediate help from trained professionals. Pay careful attention to warning signs and know how to identify risk factors. In addition to those mentioned above under "What causes suicide?" some additional risk factors include previous suicide attempts, talking about suicide, family history of suicide, a suicide in the local community that causes "suicide contagion," any kind of significant loss, unusual stress, divorce, moving, other significant change in an individual's life, discouragement, depression or even low self-esteem. Because depression and suicidal thoughts are mental health disorders that can be successfully treated, the key is appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Seek immediate professional help.

How CERTS helps those with suicidal tendencies

CERTS therapists have extensive experience in successfully treating individuals with depression and suicidal thoughts. A number of different therapeutic steps are taken to improve self-esteem and overcome depression. Their success with this approach is augmented by the CERTS formula of balancing outstanding clinical therapy, experiential therapy, and appropriate medical care.

Experiential therapy programs (such as equine therapy) offered at the facilities have also proven helpful. A fun and challenging academic education enhances self-esteem and encourages students to rediscover the joy of learning while they clinically stabilize. To learn more about which CERTS program can best offer the help you may require, please contact a CERTS admissions counselor at 801-755-8802.

Learn More About Suicide and Suicide Prevention

American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
National Alliance for the Mentally Ill
New York Presbyterian Hospital

Your use of the resources in this Parent Education Center constitutes your agreement and acknowledgement that this information is offered to you with the understanding that it not be interpreted as medical or professional advice and that it is not a substitute for seeking professional medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment. This information has been culled from a variety of consumer health resources believed to be reliable. All medical information needs to be carefully reviewed with your health care provider.  Do not disregard professional medical advice because of something you may have read on this site.