What is Suicidal Ideation and How to Spot the Red Flags

Life isn’t always a feel-good Bollywood movie where everything falls into place. Sometimes, it feels more like Tamasha, stuck in a loop of emotions no one else seems to understand. While most of the time you may have the energy to put up a show, just like Ved, at other times your mind may spiral into dark places. When the weight of it all becomes too much, grim thoughts can creep in; sometimes as fleeting whispers, other times as overwhelming urges. This overstimulation of emotions is what’s known as suicidal ideation.

Globally, one life is lost to suicide every 40 seconds, adding up to 800,000 deaths each year. It is the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 15 to 29. Although suicide is a global phenomenon, India accounts for up to 28% of global suicide deaths. 

Before we go any further, here’s something you need to know: You Are Not Alone. No matter how heavy the burden feels, there are people who care, who want to help, and who will listen. Hope exists, even when it’s hard to see.

Now let’s explore what are suicidal ideation & suicidal ideation symptoms, what triggers it, and most importantly, how it can be managed.

Understanding suicidal ideation

• What does suicidal ideation mean?

Suicidal ideation refers to thinking about or planning suicide. It doesn’t always mean a person will act on these thoughts, but it does signal deep emotional distress. These thoughts can range from passive musings (wondering if life is worth living) to active planning of a suicide attempt.

Remember, it’s not a sign of weakness or a cry for attention. It’s a heartfelt plea for relief from intense pain.

• Suicidal ideation vs. suicide attempt

There is a distinction between suicidal ideation and an actual suicide attempt. While suicidal ideation involves thoughts, a suicide attempt occurs when a person takes actions intending to end their life. Understanding this difference is crucial in recognising when someone needs immediate help.

What are the warning signs of suicidal ideation?

Often, before those dark thoughts take over, a person might show signs of deep emotional or mental stress. Recognising these signs can help prevent these thoughts from growing and turning into signs of suicidal ideation. Some of the tell-tale signs of mental distress leading to suicidal ideation may include isolating themselves, losing interest in activities they once enjoyed, changes in sleep patterns, and changes in weight and appetite. However, when these signs go unnoticed, the darkness can deepen, causing overwhelming feelings of hopelessness and suicidal thoughts. 

Some of the most common suicidal thoughts’ warning signs include: 

• Expressing feelings of despair or saying they feel like a burden

• Making a will or giving away personal possessions

• Engaging in reckless behaviour such as substance abuse, overconsumption of alcohol or dangerous driving

• Writing or speaking about death, dying, or suicide

What leads a person to contemplate suicide

Suicidal ideation doesn’t emerge out of nowhere. It is often the result of deep emotional pain, unresolved trauma, or overwhelming life circumstances. These circumstances leading to suicidal ideation can be divided into two categories: 

• Mental health conditions linked to suicidal thoughts

• Depression and other mood disorders

• Anxiety disorders

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

• Schizophrenia or psychosis

• Borderline personality disorder (BPD)

• Obsessive complusive disorver (OCD)

These conditions can distort thoughts and amplify feelings of despair, making suicide seem like the only escape.

• Life events and environmental factors

• Loss of a loved one

• Financial or job-related stress

• Abuse or trauma

• Chronic illness or pain

• Discrimination or struggles related to sexual orientation

• Academic failure

Suicidal ideation doesn’t always stem from one specific cause, it is often a combination of factors that create an overwhelming sense of hopelessness.

How to help someone experiencing suicidal ideation

Supporting someone who is struggling with suicidal thoughts can feel overwhelming, but your presence and understanding can make a life-saving difference. Many who experience suicidal ideation often feel isolated, unheard, or trapped in their pain. Here’s how you can make all the difference for them. 

• 1. Recognise the signs and take them seriously

If someone you know exhibits warning signs, don’t dismiss them. Every comment or behaviour suggesting suicide should be treated with urgency.

• 2. Ask directly about suicidal thoughts

It’s a myth that talking about suicide will put the idea into someone’s head. In reality, asking, “Are you thinking about suicide?” can open the door for them to talk about it, seek help and feel less alone.

• 3. Encourage professional help

Therapists, psychiatrists, and crisis counsellors are trained to provide the support and treatment necessary to navigate these dark thoughts. Encourage your loved one to seek professional help and, if necessary, assist them in finding resources.

• 4. Ensure immediate safety

If someone is at immediate risk, do not leave them alone. Remove access to anything they could use to harm themselves, such as sharp objects, anything that can mimic a noose, drugs or medicines, etc. And reach out to close family or emergency crisis services immediately.

Suicide prevention resources and helplines

If you're struggling and need someone to talk to, know that help is just a call away. Several helplines in India offer confidential support, guidance, and a listening ear. One of the most active is iCall, which provides assistance in multiple languages, including English, Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, Bengali, Assamese, Punjabi, and Malayalam. Their trained counsellors are available Monday to Saturday from 10 AM to 8 PM.

Additionally, you can reach out to:

• KIRAN, the Government of India’s mental health rehabilitation helpline: 1800-599-0019

• Vandrevala Foundation, a trusted mental health support service: 9999-666-555

Whatever you’re facing, remember: you’re not in this alone. Support is always just a call away.

Final thoughts: Spreading awareness and support

Suicidal ideation is a painful, isolating experience, but it doesn’t have to end in tragedy. If you or someone you love is struggling, please know that hope exists. Recovery is possible. And no matter how unbearable life may seem right now, you are not alone in this fight.

Let’s start conversations, break that stigma, and remind everyone battling these thoughts that their story is far from over.

 Click here for medical advice disclaimer