Does life seem meaningless? Worthless? Are you feeling hopeless and uncertain? Does killing yourself seem like a solution to your problems? The majority of people who want to kill themselves don't truly want to die, they want an end to their daily suffering. Like physical pain, intense, daily psychological pain forces people to look for an escape.
Suicidal thoughts affect people of all ages. According to the 2015 Kids Count Study, Indiana has the nation's highest rate of teens contemplating suicide and the second highest rate of teen suicide attempts. I provide brief cognitive behavioral therapy (BCBT) and mindfulness based interventions to help client's breakthrough what's known as the suicidal mode. The suicidal mode is when a person experiences a life stressor which begins a cascade of thoughts, emotions, and behaviors which activates a suicidal crisis. I've worked with hundreds of individuals struggling with suicidal thoughts, including active duty military personnel. Although suicidal patients come from diverse backgrounds, treatment will include three key components:
- Education - clients need to understand the conditions that create suicidal thoughts
- Effective coping strategies - identification and development of effective coping strategies to manage suicidal thoughts will help patients regain control
- Reasons for living - everyone can lead a life with meaning and purpose, we will explore values and goals together
Suicidal thoughts and behavior are serious - in some instances, hospitalization is necessary. In my experience most patients can be managed with a solid personalized plan that minimizes disruption to work, school, and family life.