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The deeper meaning of suicidal thoughts: Why do people suddenly think about ending their lives?
Suicidal ideation, or suicidal thought, is a thought process that involves thinking or reflecting on the possibility of ending one's own life. It is not a diagnosis, but rather a symptom of some psychological disorders, and can sometimes occur in the absence of a mental illness due to adverse life circumstances. For suicide risk assessment, suicidal thoughts range from fleeting thoughts to detailed plans. In the suicide risk scale, active suicidal ideation generally includes preparing for suicide or forming a plan, while passive suicidal ideation involves thinking about not wanting to live or fantasizing about dying.
Suicidal ideation, as defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is “thoughts of thinking about, considering, or planning suicide.”
Suicidal thoughts are also statistically common among teens and are closely linked to depression and other mood disorders. But many other psychological disorders, life events, and family events may also increase the risk of such thoughts. Mental health researchers stress that health systems should provide treatment to any individual experiencing suicidal thoughts, regardless of a diagnosis, because those thoughts can bring on the risk of suicidal behavior or recurring related problems.
Definition and terminology of suicidal thoughts
According to ICD-11, suicidal ideation is described as "thoughts, ideas, or reflections about ending one's life, ranging from thoughts of nearly dying to detailed planning." In contrast, DSM-5 defines suicidal ideation as It is defined as "ideas of self-harm accompanied by some degree of consideration or planning for one's own death."
Psychologists often refer to the sudden onset of suicidal thoughts in people who do not display suicidal thoughts as "intrusive thoughts."
Risk Factors
Risk factors for suicidal thoughts can be divided into three main categories: mental illness, life events, and family history.
Mental illnessMany psychological disorders are symptoms of suicidal thoughts, and when interacting with adverse life events, such thoughts may not indicate the presence of a mental illness. Studies show that 73% of patients with borderline personality disorder have attempted suicide, with an average of 3.4 suicide attempts per patient.
Life Events
Life events also play a significant role in the prediction of suicidal thoughts. Studies have shown that life events such as alcohol abuse, loss of standards, and the end of close relationships can significantly increase the risk of suicidal thoughts. In particular, those who have attempted suicide in the past are more likely to have suicidal thoughts or attempts in the future.
Family History
Family background and parents' emotional state can also indirectly affect an individual's suicidal thoughts. If a parent has a history of depression, the likelihood of a child experiencing suicidal thoughts increases. Additionally, the quality of the relationship between parents and children has been found to be associated with suicidal thoughts.
Precautions
Early detection and intervention are important methods to prevent suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Studies have shown that 91% of people who commit suicide have mental illness, but only 35% of them receive treatment. This emphasizes the need for early detection so that, once mental illness is detected, the associated problems can be effectively treated.
Studies have found that early identification and mental health support can significantly reduce suicidal thoughts.
In addition, strengthening public awareness of mental health can help those facing difficulties in life seek help in a timely manner. Whether it is psychotherapy, hospitalization, or medication, they are all effective ways to combat suicidal thoughts.
Thoughts and future directions
As society becomes more aware of mental health issues, suicidal thoughts may become less secretive in the future. However, continued attention and understanding of the underlying reasons behind suicidal thoughts remains critical. We need to re-examine the meaning of suicidal thoughts and build a more supportive environment in society and families. How, exactly, can we break through these shackles of thinking so that everyone can freely express their inner pain and struggle?
