Blog Why It is Important to Have A Suicidal Prevention Plan

 

Understanding Suicidal Ideation

First and foremost, it’s vital to differentiate between experiencing suicidal thoughts and acting on them. Encountering these feelings does not mean you are destined to follow through on them. When faced with emotional pain and shame—often a byproduct of trauma—suicidal ideation can emerge as a response. While it might feel insurmountable at times, acknowledging these feelings opens the door to healing rather than despair.

The battle of feeling trapped by shame or terror can lead you down a dark path. However, the most empowering choice you can make is to confront these feelings directly, rather than numbing or sidestepping them. It is important to resist surrendering to those thoughts, as your abuser has already taken enough from you. Choosing to stand firm and seek help is an act of defiance against the pain that has been inflicted on you.

The Necessity of a Suicide Prevention Plan

In moments of crisis, clarity often eludes us, making decision-making incredibly challenging. Therefore, having a suicide prevention plan in place is not just recommended; it’s essential. Waiting for those intense emotions to arise can be detrimental, as they can cloud your judgment and leave you feeling isolated and hopeless.

Building Your Support System

Your prevention plan should center around a robust support system—a network of individuals who understand your struggles and validate your experiences. Trust can be an elusive commodity for survivors of trauma, but taking the initial step to reach out to even one person can be transformative. Here are a few suggestions for building your support network:

1. Identify Key Individuals: This can include therapists, counselors, supportive friends, family members, fellow survivors, mental health professionals, or spiritual guides.
2. Start Small: If trust is an issue, approach this process incrementally. Reaching out to one person at a time can prevent feeling overwhelmed.
3. Establish Communication: Let your support team know your struggles, and share how they can best support you during tough times.

3 Crucial Steps to Take

1. Develop a No Suicide Contract: A vital aspect of your prevention plan should include a no-suicide contract with members of your support team. This creates a mutual agreement—an acknowledgment that there will be moments of struggle but also a commitment to you from your supporters.
2. Create a List of Emergency Contacts: Identify individuals you can call in times of crisis. This list should ideally include a therapist, a trusted friend, and a fellow survivor or support group member. Having these names easily accessible can foster quick action in moments of despair.
3. Utilize Resources: Keep the contact information for a 24-hour crisis line handy as an invaluable resource. In the U.S., the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 988 and is an excellent option for immediate help.

Conclusion

The journey through healing from sexual abuse is undeniably arduous, and experiencing suicidal ideation can make it feel even more daunting. However, it is essential to recognize that these thoughts, while serious, are not insurmountable. By acknowledging your feelings and taking proactive steps, you can build a safety net that allows you to navigate the dark times with a flicker of hope.

Creating a suicide prevention plan is a step towards empowerment, allowing you to reclaim agency over your life. Acknowledge the pain, but also acknowledge the strength within you to seek support and reach out for help. You deserve healing, and you are not alone. The light at the end of the tunnel is not just a distant dream; it can be your reality with the right support and determination.

 

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Beatrice Ndura is a Mental Health Coach, a writer, and the host of Musings Podcast, which addresses mental and spiritual health.