Burden No More: Strategies to Ease the Pain of Chronic Suicidal Thoughts

Understanding chronic suicidal thoughts  

• Identify the major risk factors from the 3-step theory of suicide (pain, hopelessness, connection, capacity for suicide) 
• Identify the major risk factors from the interpersonal theory of suicide (perceived burdensomeness, thwarted belongingness, capability for suicide) 
• Cultural considerations in conceptualization and care 

Cognitive-behavioral strategies to help soothe pain that drives suicidal thoughts 

• Safety planning, including identifying supportive people 
• Building hope by identifying reasons for optimism based on previous life experiences 
• Make meaning in the face of suffering by engaging in behaviors aligned with client-identified values 
• Healthy coping strategies that clients can use for emotion regulation in the face of suicidal thoughts, such as engaging in emotional uplifts and self-soothing 

Limitations of Research and Potential Risks 

• More research is needed on the effectiveness of treatments for suicidal thoughts and behaviors, including strategies described in this presentation, including comparative studies that help clinicians evaluate the pros and cons of each approach (e.g., from CBT, DBT) 
• Clinicians will need to evaluate when a higher level of care is needed to remain safe 
• Clinicians should regularly assess the impact of therapeutic interventions, seek feedback from clients, and discontinue if any negative effects are observed.