It makes sense that we would develop this coping mechanism in a world that does not treat us with dignity. The microaggressions and constant debates around our lives negatively impact our ability to stay present and grounded in the life we are living. And sometimes the life we are living truly sucks.

Suicidality is common when you need an escape from your reality - it is a “escape plan” that many people’s minds come to when the world feels hopeless. Together we can find alternatives to self injury and self deletion. We will take a look at what is happening for you and sit with the scary, overwhelming, panicked feelings that lead you to this though time and time again. Together, we will see what steps you can take to build a life that feels worth living.

Suicidal thoughts can sometimes be intrusive thoughts, meaning that you weren’t thinking of them on your own or as a solution to your mental health problems, but they just sort of showed up in your mind. When we notice that these thoughts are scary, overwhelming, and make you afraid of your own mind, it’s a good idea to bring this up to a mental health professional. If this continues to reoccur, it is possible that you may be experiencing OCD.

In the end, most people do not have a strong desire to hurt themselves. The desire is to escape from the mental pain they are experiencing. Sometimes it is passive, such as a desire to be hit by a car or to fall asleep and never wake up. If you are experiencing overwhelming chronic stress, this is a very common experience. When we work together I am open about my responses to suicidality - I am not afraid of it, and I am not afraid of you. Together we will find a way to build a life that feels meaningful.

Yes, suicidal thoughts are a common experience when someone is chronically stressed. They are common in identity stress, traumatic stress, and relational stress. We will learn to notice, tolerate, and manage the distress around suicidal thoughts throughout our work together. As we get closer to a life more connected to your values, you may notice a reduction in frequency or intensity of suicidal thoughts.