Suicidal ideation is one of the most common precursors to suicide and is characterized by thoughts about taking one’s own life. Suicidal ideation can be either passive or active. So what is passive suicidal ideation, and how does it differ from active suicidal ideation?
Understanding Passive Suicidal Ideation
Passive suicidal ideation is when an individual has thoughts about ending their life but does not actively plan or attempt suicide. These thoughts may be fleeting or persistent and can range from a vague sense of wanting to die, to being obsessed or preoccupied with death or suicide.
It’s important to remember that passive suicidal ideation is not the same as active suicidal ideation, which refers to persistent thoughts about death and suicide that involve intention and a well-thought-out plan to commit suicide.
Passive suicidal ideation is more common than active suicidal ideation but often goes untreated. This is because people who experience passive suicidal ideation may not exhibit any warning signs or symptoms and may not seek help on their own.
However, it’s key to remember that even though someone may not be actively planning to attempt suicide, passive suicidal thoughts are signs of severe psychological distress and should never be ignored. Without treatment, passive suicidal thoughts can become more persistent and progress into active suicidal ideation, which almost always leads to suicide or attempted suicide. That is why it’s advisable to seek help as soon as possible if you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts or contemplating suicide.
Causes of Suicidal Ideation
There are many reasons why someone may experience suicidal ideation. For some people, it may be caused by a deep-rooted mental health illness such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or substance use disorder. For others, it can be due to excessive stress from any number of causes, such as job loss, financial difficulties, relationship problems, chronic illness, disability, or the death of a loved one.
What You Can Do To Help
If you are concerned that someone you know is experiencing passive suicidal ideation, there are ways to help. The most crucial thing you can do is talk to them about it. This can be a challenging conversation, but it is vital to let them know that you are there for them and they are not alone.
It is also essential to encourage them to seek professional help. This can be in the form of therapy, medication, or both. With proper treatment and care, suicidal thoughts can be effectively managed or prevented.
Encouraging self-care is also important. This can include things like healthy eating, regular exercise, getting enough sleep, and avoiding drugs and alcohol. Taking care of oneself, both physically and mentally, can help reduce stress levels and improve overall mental and physical well-being.
The Bottom Line
Although passive suicidal ideation may not be life-threatening in and of itself, it is still a sign of severe psychological distress that should not be overlooked. If you or someone you know is experiencing any form of suicidal thoughts, it is key to seek help as soon as possible.