Suicidal ideation

Overview
Suicidal ideation is a common medical term for thoughts about suicide, which may be as detailed as a formulated plan, without the suicidal act itself. Although most people who undergo suicidal ideation do not commit suicide, some go on to make suicide attempts or take their own lives. The range of suicidal ideation varies greatly from fleeting to detailed planning, role playing and unsuccessful attempts, which may be deliberately constructed to fail or be discovered or may be fully intended to succeed but not actually do so.

In a study conducted in Finland, 22% of the suicide victims examined had discussed suicidal intent with a health care professional in their last office visit.

Epidemiologic factors

 * Male, white, age greater than 65 years
 * Widowed or divorced
 * Living alone; no children under the age of 18 in the household
 * Presence of stressful life events

Psychiatric disorders

 * Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
 * Major depression, which is often associated with loneliness
 * Bipolar disorder
 * Substance abuse (particularly alcohol)
 * Schizophrenia
 * Panic disorder
 * Borderline personality disorder
 * Additionally, in adolescents: impulsive, aggressive and antisocial behavior; presence of family violence and disruption

Past history

 * History of previous suicide attempt
 * Family history of suicide attempt

Symptoms associated with suicide ideation

 * Hopelessness
 * Anhedonia
 * Insomnia
 * Severe anxiety
 * Impaired concentration
 * Psychomotor agitation
 * Panic attacks