Suicidal thoughts can impact individuals of all ages and backgrounds, and knowing how to deal with them can seem overwhelming. If you do or have had suicidal thoughts, you are not alone; nearly 12.3 million people thought about suicide in 2021. Fortunately, resources are on hand to provide hope and support to you or a loved one in crisis. Read on to find out how to reach out for help today.
What Are Suicidal Thoughts?
If you have ever thought about ending your life, you have experienced suicidal thoughts. You might have vague thoughts that people would be better off without you, or created plans or methods to end your own life.
Suicidal thoughts, no matter the ideation, are signs of a developing mental crisis. You might feel trapped by these feelings and not know how to seek help. You might find it frightening to think about changing your current life, or feel unable to cope with your emotions. Sometimes, these feelings might build up gradually or arrive suddenly and unexpectedly.
You might feel:
- Physically numb to emotions or feelings
- Tired, tearful and overwhelmed
- Desperate or trapped by unbearable pain
- Useless or unloved
And you may also experience physical symptoms like:
- A lack of interest in self-care
- Insomnia and a lack of appetite
- Incredibly low self-esteem
- Wanting to cut yourself off from others
These physical symptoms can also worsen your mental health over time. It’s natural not to understand why you feel this way, but seeking help can provide other solutions and tools to manage your suicidal thoughts.
When To Get Help
Despite common misconceptions and stigmas, asking for help is a sign of strength. Seek help as soon as you experience suicidal thoughts. Find a trusted friend or family member and tell them you are experiencing suicidal thoughts. Let your trusted friend or relative know you are in crisis and need immediate help. If it is too difficult to talk to a loved one, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline immediately for support.
If you feel increasingly alone or misunderstood from certain support systems, don’t hesitate to seek help from more qualified specialists. Not everyone is capable of managing or supporting others in moments of serious concern. But with help from the proper specialists, you can recover from suicidal thoughts with support and treatment. There is hope, and you can make those negative thoughts stop.
How To Get Help
It’s important to reach out to a trusted friend or relative as soon as you experience suicidal thoughts. Call the 988 helplines if talking to a loved one is too hard.
It’s vitally important to be kind to yourself and stay safe when experiencing suicidal thoughts. Put some distance between you and items that could be used to hurt yourself. When talking to a loved one, ask them for support in removing these items from the home. Understand that the individual may hide items in the home without consulting you, only because they are trying to keep you safe.
Focus on the person you are talking to and other important people in your life. Try to talk about the future and what you would like to achieve.
To help with short-term methods to distract from suicidal thoughts, try the following techniques:
- Focus on textures of food and fabrics to bring yourself to the present moment
- List all the good things about yourself you can think of
- Hug a loved one or cuddle a pet
- Eat something spicy or touch something cold, like ice cream
- Punch pillows, slam doors, or throw ice cubes
If you feel like you are in immediate crisis and considering suicide, call 911 immediately for assistance.
What Treatments Are Available For Suicidal Thoughts?
Many treatments can help you regain control of suicidal thoughts and feelings. At Alvarado Parkway Institute (API), we provide a variety of plans that can help you find hope and emerge from your crisis.
Inpatient Care
Inpatient care at API invites individuals to stay in our hospital for care. Our licensed therapists and nurses provide 24/7 care until you feel like yourself again. This dedicated support system provides a safe environment to focus on your recovery. Treatment programs include individual and group psychotherapy, family therapy, medication reviews and management, and a tailored approach to provide the individualized support each patient needs.
Partial Hospitalization Programs
Partial hospitalization programs (PHP) can provide a reassuring daytime framework to help overcome the challenges of suicidal thoughts. This treatment type is a step down from inpatient care, and allows individuals to return home to their families in the evening. During the day, individuals will participate in individual and group therapy, psychiatric assessments, stress management, and educational programs. The PHP program aims to help people prepare for daily life.
Outpatient Programs
Outpatient programs help those with strong support networks that have mild symptoms or need help adjusting to life after a PHP program. The program provides access to medical, educational, and psychological frameworks while the individual remains at home and immersed in their daily lives.
Dual Treatment Programs
If you are experiencing a combination of challenges alongside your suicidal thoughts, our teams are on hand at the Alvarado Parkway Institute to help. We can provide medical, psychological, and physical support on conditions like mental health, social or family changes, and various substance abuse disorders. Our team of trained professionals can help you navigate your suicidal thoughts in a safe space and take you through our programs to ensure you get the support you need.
Find Hope With Alvarado Parkway Institute
At the Alvarado Parkway Institute, we can help you find hope and regain control of your suicidal thoughts. Our supportive professionals will work with you to find a tailored program that helps you get back on your feet.
As a California Psychological Internship Council (CAPIC) member licensed by the State of California Department of Public Health, accredited by The Joint Commission, TRICARE, and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, we are fully equipped to provide you with the support you need immediately.
Start your journey to wellness by calling 619-333-7050. We provide one-to-one and group support in a safe and culturally sensitive environment.
