Suicidal Ideation

About Suicidal Ideation

Suicidal ideation can be scary for everyone involved. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of suicidal ideation can help you care for yourself or a loved one if they are experiencing suicidal ideation.

Although suicidal ideation is most often categorized simply, it is far from it. It is complicated and each person experiences it differently. It may be “simpler” and easier to miss, such as a desire to sleep and not wake in the morning, or easier to spot with more intense feelings. Suicidal ideation fluctuates, typically coming and going at different intervals.

Although many psychiatric disorders are associated with suicidal ideation, many people who experience this issue do not have a currently diagnosed psychiatric disorder. As such, it is important to keep an eye out for symptoms, regardless of a diagnosis, and to seek help when needed.

Signs of Suicidal Ideation

Suicidal ideation is a symptom, not a disorder in and of itself, and can present in many different ways. It may be difficult for outsiders to spot. However, some symptoms commonly appear alongside suicidal ideation and can be used to help recognize when you or a loved one may need help. These signs of suicidal ideation can include:

• Emotional symptoms: feeling hopeless or dejected, mood swings, feeling like a burden, loss of interest in hobbies and interests, irritability or anxiousness
• Physical symptoms: new or worsening tiredness or fatigue, insomnia or difficulty sleeping, headaches or muscle aches, shakiness, hot or cold flashes
• Behavioral symptoms: giving away belongings, asking for forgiveness or attempting to resolve old conflicts, writing letters to family and loved ones, talking about suicide or death, social withdrawal, and risky behavior such as drinking or gambling

Many of these symptoms, especially behavioral ones, may not indicate suicidal ideation. Regardless, most of these symptoms are concerning. The symptoms indicate that the person is hurting, and because of that, they deserve help. If you or a loved one is experiencing these symptoms, speak to a medical professional.

Suicidal Ideation Prevalence

Suicidal ideation is common. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), 12.2 million adults seriously thought about suicide in 2020. Some elements, such as pre-existing physical or psychiatric conditions, difficult childhood experiences, or discrimination, can increase the risk of suicide. However, experts also believe that other factors may ameliorate suicide risk, including community support, reduced access to modes of self-harm, and access to quality treatment.

Some communities are at higher risk for suicidal ideation and behavior. People between 16 and 25 are the most affected by suicidal ideation. Men are most likely to die by suicide, which experts believe may be connected to the increased stigma for men related to seeking support and treatment.

Treating Suicidal Ideation

Suicidal ideation is serious and can be very difficult for everyone involved. However, those struggling with suicidal ideation deserve safe and respectful treatment. We know that proper treatment can help people to learn self-care skills, connect people to supportive communities, and reduce harm. If you or a loved one is struggling with suicidal ideation, our expert staff at Alter Wellness Care can help.

Alter Wellness Care’s Program

Alter Wellness Care is an evidence-based, holistic treatment center located in Laguna Beach, California. At Alter Wellness Care, our staff believes in breaking down the barriers of stigma and creating a safe, effective recovery environment for those experiencing suicidal ideation. Regardless of your needs or availability, we offer programs that can help you to recover from suicidal ideation.

Our Intensive Outpatient Programs

Our first program type is our intensive outpatient programs (IOPs), designed for those seeking a higher level of structure in their care. At Alter Wellness Care, we offer two IOPs: IOP5 and IOP3.

• IOP5 is our longer-lasting program, extending over 40 to 60 days. During treatment, we offer clinical programs multiple times a day, every weekday. In addition, you will stay in a local sober living house seven days a week. This setup allows you maximum comfort, safety, and access to the support tools you need to recover.
• IOP3 is our medium-length program, lasting 30 to 40 days in total. In IOP3, you will meet daily during weekdays, choosing between two morning or two afternoon sessions. You will stay in a nearby sober living house seven days a week, providing a safe and welcoming space to live during treatment.

Our Partial Hospitalization Program

Our second program type is our partial hospitalization program (PHP), suited to you if you’re seeking a more flexible structure during treatment. Lasting 30 to 45 days, this program will give you access to several hours of treatment each day, three to five days a week. During your treatment, you will stay in a local sober living house, allowing you the safety and comfort you need to recover.

Our Treatment Options

At Alter Wellness Care, we believe in holistic, trauma-informed care for all. While in treatment, you will have access to a variety of treatment options, all designed to help you recover from suicidal ideation. Our treatment options include the following:

• Psycho-educational groups
• Skill development groups
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) groups
• Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
• Support groups
• Interpersonal process groups
• Acceptance therapy

We believe it’s possible to recover from challenging issues like suicidal ideation. At Alter Wellness Care, we will use a holistic approach to effectively guide you or your loved ones back to health.

Suicidal ideation is difficult, but treatment can be effective in helping you to create strategies for health and happiness. To learn about your options, call Alter Wellness Care at (866) 515-1580