What does it mean if a client has a plan for suicide but has not attempted?

When a client has a plan for suicide but has not attempted, it signifies ideation accompanied by intent and preparatory behavior. This means the individual has considered a specific method for carrying out suicide and possibly even thought through the steps necessary to execute that plan. Such a situation suggests a more severe level of risk compared to someone who may have fleeting thoughts about suicide without a concrete plan. It is important to recognize that the presence of a plan is an indicator that the client is likely experiencing significant distress and is serious about their suicidal thoughts, even if they have not yet acted on them. This understanding is crucial for assessing suicide risk and determining the level of intervention needed to support the client effectively.