Pooja Das Pooja Das Asked 6 months ago

What is ideation in mental health?

My friend is struggling with her mental health and her therapist used the word 'ideation'. I want to understand more about what that means in mental health terms so I can better support her.

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6 answers

Ramesh Chandra Ramesh Chandra Joined Feb 2026 6 months ago
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At my age, I have seen many young youngsters struggle with heavy thoughts. Ideation usually refers to having thoughts of ending one's life. Please know that these dark phases do pass, and talking to someone who cares can make all the difference in the world.

Swati Deshpande Swati Deshpande Joined Mar 2026 6 months ago

Ideation refers to suicidal thoughts. Having managed severe thyroid issues for years, I know how hormonal imbalances can mimic extreme mental distress and dark thoughts. Please get your blood tests done and talk to a doctor immediately to address any physical or mental causes.

Savitri Sharma Savitri Sharma Joined Feb 2026 6 months ago

This means having thoughts about harming oneself, which is a very heavy burden to carry. While staying close to family and doing daily prayer can bring peace to the mind, please do not hide this. You must seek the help of a doctor or counselor immediately.

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Consult a psychiatry specialist

Gita Krishnan Gita Krishnan Joined Feb 2026 6 months ago

I have seen this topic come up often here. Ideation means having thoughts or plans of suicide. If you or someone you know is experiencing this, please don't struggle alone—reach out to a helpline or a mental health professional right away, as support is always available.

Anil Kulkarni Anil Kulkarni Joined Jan 2026 6 months ago

While keeping a daily journal, drinking soothing herbal teas, and sitting in nature can help calm a racing mind, suicidal ideation is a very serious symptom. You must bypass all home remedies and seek professional help from a therapist or counselor immediately.

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Aditya Verma Aditya Verma Joined May 2026 5 months ago

Ideation refers to suicidal thoughts, which can be passive (wishing you were dead) or active (making a plan). My doctor explained that these thoughts are often a symptom of severe clinical depression and require professional psychiatric therapy. Please consult a doctor immediately if you are going through this.

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