What is the difference between suicidal ideation and a suicide attempt?

The distinction between suicidal ideation and a suicide attempt is foundational to understanding suicide risk assessment. Suicidal ideation refers specifically to the thoughts about wanting to end one’s life, which can vary widely in intensity and specificity, ranging from fleeting thoughts to more detailed contemplations. In contrast, a suicide attempt involves a conscious effort to take one’s life, meaning that the individual engages in actions that are intended to cause death.

Recognizing this difference is crucial for assessing the risk of suicide. Suicidal thoughts do not always translate into behavior, but when they do result in actions, it constitutes a suicide attempt. This understanding informs interventions and treatment planning, as the presence of actual attempts often indicates a higher level of risk and necessitates a different level of care compared to individuals experiencing only ideation.

Other options, while containing elements related to the topic, do not accurately capture the fundamental difference. For instance, stating that ideation is more serious than an attempt could misrepresent the risks involved, as attempts can be life-threatening and often require immediate attention. Similarly, suggesting that a suicide attempt is always planned does not account for impulsive attempts, which can occur without prior planning. Lastly, differentiating ideation as vague and attempts as detailed fails to