Counselor On Call :: Suicide [Episode 71]

Oct 1, 2021

In this episode of Counselor on Call, we discuss the difference between active suicidal ideations and passive suicidal ideations. 

Warning - this contains references to suicide and may act as a trigger to some. Please listen with caution.

Suicide is a leading cause of death but continues to be misunderstood. An essential part of understanding suicide is having the proper terminology.

Passive suicidal ideation occurs when you wish you were dead or that you could die, but you don't have any plans to commit suicide. Active suicidal ideation, on the other hand, is not only thinking about it but having the intent to commit suicide, including planning how to do it.

Passive suicidal ideations:

• Defense mechanism
• Not a character flaw or sign of weakness
• Signifies that you're dealing with pain and sadness

Active suicidal ideations:

• Giving away possessions
• Talking about death, dying, or not being around in the future
• Using phrases that make death sound like an option, such as "When I am gone," "If I were to kill myself…."
• Saying goodbye or making amends with loved ones
• Collecting items that are harmful or potentially dangerous
• Social withdraw
• Increased drug or alcohol usage
• Not participating in activities that were once enjoyable
• Engaging in risky or potentially harmful behaviors

If you or your loved ones are dealing with either, please reach out for help: National Suicide Hotline, 800-273-8255

*DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to constitute or be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek your doctor's advice or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or my website.  

If you require counseling, please check out Psychology Today or Nami for helpful resources.