Suicidal ideation

What is Suicidal ideation

Suicidal ideation is defined as the thoughts of intentionally causing one’s own death. It is a common symptom of depression and other mental health disorders, and can range from a fleeting curiosity to detailed planning. Although suicidal ideation is not a mental disorder itself, it is an important symptom that can indicate the need for mental health treatment.

Who has Suicidal ideation

It is estimated that in Australia, between 4 and 5 percent of the population have had suicidal ideation in the last 12 months. Suicidal ideation can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, race, or social class.

How to naturally treat Suicidal ideation

1. Seek professional help: If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, it is important to seek professional help from a mental health professional. A doctor, counselor, or therapist can help you develop a treatment plan to address your mental health issues and help you find healthier ways to cope with your feelings and the challenges you are facing.
2. Connect with supportive people: Surround yourself with supportive people who can provide emotional support and a listening ear. Connecting with family, friends, or even a support group can provide much needed comfort and help you feel less isolated and alone.
3. Develop healthy coping skills: It is important to develop healthy coping skills to help manage your thoughts and emotions. Some healthy coping skills include mindfulness, relaxation techniques, journaling, and engaging in activities that make you feel good.
4. Exercise regularly: Exercise can help improve your mood and reduce stress and anxiety. Participating in regular physical activity such as walking, jogging, biking, swimming, or any other activity that you enjoy can help you manage your feelings of hopelessness and despair.
5. Eat a healthy diet: Eating a healthy diet that is balanced in vitamins, minerals, and protein can help improve your energy levels and mood. Eating a balanced diet can also help reduce stress and anxiety.
6. Get adequate sleep: Getting enough sleep can help reduce stress and improve your overall mood. Aim to get 7-8 hours of sleep each night in order to feel refreshed and energized.
7. Avoid drugs and alcohol: Drugs and alcohol can worsen your symptoms and make it difficult to think clearly. It is important to avoid using drugs and alcohol to cope with your feelings.
8. Take time for yourself: Make time for yourself each day to do something you enjoy. This can be anything from going for a walk in nature to reading a book, listening to music, or taking a hot bath. Taking time for yourself can help you feel relaxed and more in control of your thoughts and feelings.

Natural Supplements or medications for Suicidal ideation

1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that are important for mental health and well-being. Studies have found that supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids can reduce symptoms of depression and suicidal ideation.
2. 5-HTP: 5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan) is a naturally occurring amino acid that is involved in the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in mood regulation. Studies have found that 5-HTP supplementation can reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation.
3. St. John’s Wort: St. John’s Wort is a herbal remedy commonly used to treat depression. Studies have found that it can reduce symptoms of depression and suicidal ideation.
4. SAM-e: SAM-e (S-adenosylmethionine) is a naturally occurring compound that is involved in the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. Studies have found that SAM-e supplementation can reduce symptoms of depression and suicidal ideation.
5. Antidepressants: Antidepressants are medications used to treat depression and other mood disorders. Studies have found that antidepressants can reduce symptoms of depression and suicidal ideation.

Nutrition for Suicidal ideation

There is no direct evidence that nutrition has a direct effect on mental health. However, research does suggest that there is an association between nutrition and mental health, including suicidal ideation. Eating a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods from all food groups may help to reduce stress and improve overall mental health.

Nutrition can help reduce the risk of depression, which is a major risk factor for suicide. Eating a healthy diet may help to improve mood and reduce anxiety. Eating foods rich in complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, protiens and healthy fats from foods such as avacados can help to stabilize blood sugar levels, which can improve mood and reduce stress. Eating foods that are rich in essential fatty acids, such as fish, nuts, and seeds, can help to improve brain function and reduce inflammation. Eating foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, may help to reduce oxidative stress, which can lead to mood disturbances.

In addition to eating a healthy diet, getting regular physical activity can help improve mental health. Exercise can help to reduce stress and improve mood. It can also help to reduce feelings of anxiety and depression. Regular exercise can help to improve sleep quality, which may help to reduce suicidal thoughts.

Finally, it is important to make sure to get adequate rest and relaxation. Taking time to relax and unwind can help to reduce stress and improve mental health. Taking time to practice mindfulness and meditation can also help to reduce stress and improve mental health.

By following a healthy diet and lifestyle, you may be able to reduce your risk of suicidal ideation. If you are having thoughts of suicide, please talk to someone immediately and get help.

How does Exercise help with Suicidal ideation?

Exercise can be a powerful tool in helping to reduce suicidal ideation. It can help to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, all of which can contribute to suicidal thoughts and feelings. Exercise releases endorphins, which are hormones that are associated with feeling good, and can help to improve mood. Additionally, exercise can help to boost self-esteem and self-confidence, and provide a sense of accomplishment when goals are met. Exercise can also provide a distraction from the thoughts and feelings associated with suicidal ideation, and can help to promote healthy coping mechanisms.

What resources are most helpful for dealing with Suicidal ideation

• Beyond Blue: Beyond Blue is a national mental health charity in Australia that provides support and information on a range of topics related to mental health and wellbeing, including suicide prevention. Beyond Blue provides a 24-hour phone service, online chat service, and online forums where people can discuss their mental health with peers and mental health professionals.
• Lifeline: Lifeline is a crisis support and suicide prevention service in Australia. Lifeline provides 24-hour telephone crisis support and online chat services, as well as face-to-face crisis support in some locations.
• Suicide Call Back Service: The Suicide Call Back Service is a nationwide telephone and online counselling service for people affected by suicide. The service offers counselling, support and referral services to those affected by suicide, as well as those at risk of suicide.
• Black Dog Institute: The Black Dog Institute is a not-for-profit organisation in Australia that provides information, resources and support on mental health issues, including suicide prevention. The Institute also provides education, research and clinical services.
• SANE Australia: SANE Australia is a national charity that provides information and support to people affected by mental illness, including those at risk of suicide. SANE Australia offers a range of services, including a helpline, email and online support, as well as face-to-face counselling.

What advice would you give to someone who has recently been diagnosed with Suicidal ideation?

1. Seek professional help. It is important to seek help from a mental health professional for any thoughts of suicide. They can provide the support and guidance needed to help manage your thoughts and feelings.
2. Reach out for support. Connect with friends and family members who can provide emotional support. Talking to someone can help you feel less alone and provide a sense of comfort.
3. Take care of yourself. Focus on self-care activities that nourish your mind and body. Get enough sleep, eat healthy meals, and exercise regularly.
4. Create a safety plan. A safety plan is a plan of action you can take to reduce your risk of self-harm. Make a list of things you can do when you are feeling suicidal, such as calling a friend or going for a walk.
5. Challenge negative thoughts. Remind yourself that suicidal thoughts are not permanent and can be managed. It is important to challenge any unhelpful thoughts and replace them with more positive ones.