Therapy for Suicidal Thoughts
Dr. Bryon McQuirt
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Bryon McQuirt
Last Updated on:
August 12, 2024
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Experiencing suicidal thoughts can be overwhelming and frightening, and often, it can be difficult to talk about. It’s important to remember that you are not alone. If you or a loved one are experiencing these thoughts, it’s crucial that they are taken seriously and to seek help.
Suicidal ideation is the term for someone having thoughts about suicide, no matter if they’re passive or active. Most often, suicidal thoughts can stem from other mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder.
Therapy for suicidal thoughts can be a vital resource for those struggling with suicidal ideation and anyone experiencing symptoms of wanting to hurt themselves should not be overlooked.
You are not alone. You deserve to get help.
Peachtree Wellness is an industry leader in mental health treatment. Our team of top medical experts specialize in dual diagnosis treatment and are committed to ensuring that each patient is treated as an individual. Call us today, we’re available 24/7.
How Common Are Suicidal Thoughts?
Suicidal thoughts, also known as suicidal ideation, are more common than many people realize. They can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, background, or circumstances.
Research shows that millions of people worldwide experience suicidal thoughts each year. In the United States alone, it’s estimated that over 10 million adults seriously contemplate suicide annually and more than 700,000 people die to suicide every year, that can be prevented.
Recognizing the signs and reaching out for help can make a significant difference in preventing the tragic outcomes associated with suicide and suicidal ideation.
Top Therapy Modalities for Suicidal Thoughts
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Suicidal Ideation (CBT-SP)
CBT-SP is a specialized form of CBT that focuses specifically on suicide prevention. It helps individuals identify and challenge the negative thought patterns and beliefs that contribute to suicidal ideation. Through this process, clients learn coping strategies and problem-solving skills to manage distress and reduce the risk of suicidal behavior.
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy for Suicidal Ideation (DBT)
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is another evidence-based treatment that has been particularly effective for individuals with chronic suicidal ideation or self-harm behaviors. DBT combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness practices to help individuals regulate emotions, tolerate distress, and build healthy interpersonal relationships.
Psychodynamic Therapy
Psychodynamic therapy delves into the unconscious mind to explore the underlying emotional conflicts and experiences that contribute to suicidal thoughts. This therapeutic approach helps individuals gain insight into their past and present relationships, unresolved trauma, and internal struggles. By bringing these issues to the surface, psychodynamic therapy can help clients understand the root causes of their distress and develop healthier ways of coping with their emotions.
Mindfulness Techniques
Mindfulness techniques, often integrated into other therapeutic modalities, focus on helping individuals stay present and aware of their thoughts and feelings without judgment. Mindfulness practices can reduce the intensity of suicidal thoughts by teaching clients how to observe their emotions without becoming overwhelmed by them. These techniques promote a sense of calm and clarity, enabling individuals to manage their thoughts more effectively and reduce the risk of acting on suicidal impulses.
Finding Treatment for Suicidal Ideation
Seeking treatment for suicidal ideation is a courageous step, and finding the right support is crucial. Many therapy modalities are available to address suicidal thoughts, and the most effective treatment often involves a combination of approaches tailored to the individual’s unique needs. Working with a mental health professional can help determine the best course of action, whether it’s through therapy, medication, or a combination of both.
Our Suicidal Ideation Treatment Programs
At our Peachtree Wellness Solutions, we offer a range of treatment programs designed to support individuals struggling with suicidal thoughts. Upon admission into our programs, our admission team conducts an initial pre-assessment to determine the level of care that is most appropriate. Oftentimes, admission into our lower levels of care are dependent on the severity of suicidal thoughts.
Our treatment programs are entirely voluntary and individuals admitting into our programs are ready to receive help.
Residential Treatment Program
For those who require intensive, round-the-clock care, our residential program provides a safe and supportive environment where clients can focus entirely on their recovery.
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
Our Partial Hospitalization Program offers structured treatment during the day, allowing clients to return home in the evenings. This program is ideal for individuals who need a high level of care but also benefit from spending time in their familiar surroundings.
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
Our Intensive Outpatient Program in Atlanta provides a flexible treatment option for those who require more support than traditional outpatient therapy but do not need the intensity of a full-day program. Clients attend therapy sessions several times a week, working on their recovery while maintaining daily responsibilities. Admission into our IOP program for suicidal ideation is determined on a case-by-case basis.
Outpatient Program
Our outpatient program offers ongoing therapy and support for individuals who have completed more intensive treatment or those who are managing less severe symptoms. This program is designed to help clients continue their progress and maintain long-term mental health. Admission into OP for suicidal ideation is also determined on a case-by-case basis.
Therapy for Suicidal Thoughts
Therapy can provide a supportive environment where individuals can openly discuss their feelings, gain insight into their struggles, and develop a sense of hope and purpose. While the effectiveness of therapy can vary depending on the individual and the severity of their condition, it is a crucial component in the treatment of suicidal ideation and has been shown to reduce the risk of suicide.
In the early stages of therapy, discussing deep-seated emotions and traumatic experiences can sometimes lead to an increase in distress, which may temporarily intensify suicidal thoughts.
Our therapists monitor each client closely, gradually introducing difficult topics, while providing effective coping strategies to manage distress.
Yes, we utilize medication management and psychiatry as part of our treatment programming to help reduce the intensity of symptoms associated with suicidal thoughts and root cause issues such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder.
Therapy alone can be highly beneficial in treating suicidal ideation for many clients, dependent on the severity of the suicidal thoughts. In case of severe suicidal ideation, therapy alone may not be sufficient and 1013 hold in Georgia may be necessary until the individual becomes stabilized.
Begin Treatment for Suicidal Ideation Today
If you or someone you love is struggling with suicidal thoughts, don’t wait to seek help. At Peachtree Wellness Solutions, our effective Georgia mental health treatment programs can be a lifeline to help you find healing from suicidal ideation. Call us now at 770-202-1274 or verify your insurance to learn more about our mental health treatment programs. Remember, you are not alone—help is available, and recovery is possible.
We Work With Most Insurance
Most major health insurance plans with out-of-network benefits can help cover the costs of our program. Find out your coverage options below.
