Suicidal Thoughts: 6 Ways Mental Health Professionals Can Help

Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry

Suicidal thoughts can be a heavy burden to carry, yet they are more common than many realize. If you or someone you know is experiencing these thoughts, it’s important to recognize that you are not alone. Understanding this reality can be the first step toward healing and safety.

The Commonality of Suicidal Thoughts

Many people face periods in their lives where they feel overwhelmed, hopeless, or trapped. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), in 2021, nearly 12 million adults in the U.S. seriously considered suicide, highlighting the prevalence of these thoughts across various demographics (NIMH).

Recognizing that these feelings are common is crucial. It helps to normalize the conversation around mental health, reducing stigma and encouraging individuals to seek help.

How Mental Health Professionals Can Help

Mental health professionals play a vital role in supporting individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts. Here’s how psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, and therapists can provide assistance:

1. Comprehensive Assessment: Mental health professionals can conduct thorough evaluations to understand the underlying causes of suicidal thoughts. This includes assessing mental health history, current stressors, and risk factors.
2. Therapeutic Interventions: Therapists utilize various evidence-based therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Research shows that these approaches can help individuals reframe negative thought patterns and develop coping strategies (Hofmann et al., 2012).
3. Medication Management: Psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners can prescribe medications to help manage symptoms of underlying mental health disorders, such as depression or anxiety. Studies have shown that effective pharmacotherapy can significantly reduce suicidal ideation (Baldessarini et al., 2006).
4. Ketamine Therapy: Emerging research suggests that ketamine therapy may offer rapid relief from suicidal thoughts. Ketamine, traditionally used as an anesthetic, has shown promise in treating severe depression and suicidal ideation. A study published in JAMA Psychiatry found that a single infusion of ketamine led to significant reductions in suicidal thoughts within 24 hours (Zanos & Gould, 2018). Another meta-analysis highlighted the efficacy of ketamine in rapidly alleviating depression and suicidal ideation across multiple studies (Coyle & Laws, 2015).
5. Crisis Intervention: In urgent situations, mental health professionals can provide immediate support and crisis intervention strategies. They can guide individuals through difficult moments and create safety plans tailored to their needs.
6. Ongoing Support and Follow-Up: Regular therapy sessions and check-ins can help individuals feel supported and less isolated. Mental health professionals can monitor progress, adjust treatment plans, and continue to provide encouragement.

Enhancing Safety

When someone is experiencing suicidal thoughts, it’s essential to enhance their safety. Here are some strategies that can be helpful:

1. Develop a Safety Plan: Create a personalized plan that includes warning signs, coping strategies, and emergency contacts. Having a clear plan can provide a sense of control. This can be done with a mental health professional.
2. Limit Access to Means: Remove items that could be used for self-harm or suicide, if possible. This might involve securing medications, sharp objects, or firearms.
3. Connect with Support: Encourage open communication with trusted friends, family, or mental health professionals. Having a support system can provide comfort and accountability.
4. Engage in Self-Care: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, sufficient sleep, and mindfulness practices can help improve overall mental health and resilience.
5. Seek Professional Help: Talking to a mental health professional can provide essential support. They can offer therapies and strategies tailored to individual needs.

Resources for Support

If you or someone you know is struggling, several resources are available:

• 911 or Nearest Emergency Room: For an active crisis where you or someone you know is actively planning for suicide with intent to carry out the plan, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. 
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: You can reach out to the 988 Lifeline by calling or texting 988. Trained counselors are available 24/7 to provide free and confidential support.
• Mental Health Center: The Mental Health Center offers various services, including therapy and crisis intervention. More information can be found at Mental Health Center, where you can access resources and support tailored to your needs.
• Ketamine Therapy Center: For information on ketamine therapy as a treatment for depression and suicidal thoughts, visit Ketamine Center.

Final Thoughts

Suicidal thoughts are a serious matter, but they are also something many individuals encounter. It’s vital to acknowledge these feelings and seek help. By enhancing safety and utilizing available resources, individuals can find hope and healing. Mental health professionals are equipped with the knowledge and tools to help you navigate these challenges, providing essential support and guidance.

Reaching out for help is a sign of strength, and there are people and resources ready to support you through the most challenging of times. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call emergency services or go to your nearest hospital. Your life is valuable, and support is always available.

References

• Baldessarini, R. J., Tondo, L., & Viguera, A. C. (2006). Pharmacotherapy for the Prevention of Suicide. American Journal of Psychiatry, 163(1), 24-30. Retrieved from PubMed
• Coyle, C. M., & Laws, K. R. (2015). The use of ketamine as an antidepressant: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Affective Disorders, 175, 131-138. Retrieved from NCBI
• Hofmann, S. G., Asnaani, A., Vonk, I. J. J., Sawyer, A. T., & Fang, A. (2012). The Efficacy of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: A Meta-Analytic Review. Cognitive Therapy and Research, 36(5), 427-440. Retrieved from NCBI
• National Institute of Mental Health. (2021). Suicide. Retrieved from NIMH
• Zanos, P., & Gould, T. D. (2018). Mechanisms of ketamine action as an antidepressant. JAMA Psychiatry, 75(8), 815-825. Retrieved from JAMA