What is the difference between suicidal ideation and suicide attempts?

The distinction between suicidal ideation and suicide attempts is critical to understanding suicide risk. Suicidal ideation encompasses thoughts about self-harm or the desire to end one's life without any physical action taken. It may include a range of thoughts, from fleeting considerations to detailed plans about how one might carry out suicide.

In contrast, a suicide attempt involves taking actionable steps towards ending one's life, whether successfully or not. This difference highlights the severity typically associated with actual attempts, as they represent a level of distress that has manifested into a physical action, regardless of the outcome.

Recognizing this difference is essential for mental health professionals, as it influences assessment, treatment planning, and the urgency of intervention for those at risk. Understanding that thoughts do not equate to actions, but rather indicate potential risk, helps in tailoring appropriate support and preventive measures for individuals who are struggling with these issues.