Treatment for Suicidal Thoughts

Treatment for Suicidal Thoughts

At SUN Behavioral Health Columbus, we provide 24/7 crisis admission to ensure that individuals in urgent need have a safe place to turn at any time. Our comprehensive treatment programs are designed to support those experiencing suicidal thoughts and are part of our mission to address unmet behavioral health needs in the community. Healing is always possible—and help is always available.

What We Treat: Suicidal Thoughts

Suicidal thoughts are a serious mental health concern and can be part of a larger continuum that includes suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, and suicide itself. Understanding the differences is essential to seeking the right help:

• Suicidal ideation refers to thinking about, considering, or planning suicide.
• A suicide attempt occurs when someone engages in behavior intended to end their life but survives.
• Suicide is the act of intentionally ending one’s life.

These thoughts can feel overwhelming, leaving individuals feeling trapped or hopeless. However, with timely intervention and compassionate care, suicide is preventable.

At SUN Behavioral Health Columbus, we offer specialized treatment for individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts. Our 24/7 crisis care ensures immediate access to support, and our clinicians are trained to guide individuals toward safety, healing, and recovery. We are committed to solving unmet behavioral health needs in our community, and that includes offering care to those in their most vulnerable moments.

Coping with Suicidal Thoughts

No one should face suicidal thoughts alone. Building a support system, whether through trusted friends and family or with the help of a licensed mental health professional, is a critical step in managing and overcoming these feelings.

Therapists and counselors can provide evidence-based strategies to manage suicidal ideation and address the underlying issues contributing to distress. Meanwhile, loved ones can offer emotional support, understanding, and a safe space to talk openly.

At SUN, we help individuals build a foundation for long-term mental wellness through connection, coping strategies, and compassionate care. You’re not alone—and help is always available.

How We Treat Suicidal Thoughts at SUN Behavioral Health Columbus

At SUN Behavioral Health Columbus, our approach to treating suicidal thoughts is comprehensive and individualized. Treatment may include psychotherapy, medication management, or a combination of both, tailored to each person’s unique needs, treatment history, and clinical assessments. We work collaboratively with you and your healthcare providers to develop a personalized plan of care.

We offer both inpatient and outpatient treatment programs for individuals experiencing suicidal ideation. These programs utilize evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). CBT focuses on identifying challenges and teaching practical skills to manage them, including relaxation techniques and problem-solving.

Inpatient Treatment

For individuals in immediate crisis or at significant risk of self-harm, inpatient care may be the most appropriate starting point. This level of care provides a safe, structured environment where patients are surrounded by clinical support and removed from external stressors or potential triggers.

Our inpatient mental health services are available for individuals across the lifespan—from children and adolescents to adults and older adults. The goal of inpatient care is stabilization, safety, and the development of a treatment plan for continued care after discharge.

Outpatient Treatment

Following inpatient care, or when inpatient care is not required, patients may be referred to a structured outpatient program. SUN Behavioral Health Columbus offers two levels of outpatient care: Partial Hospitalization (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Programming (IOP).

PHP is designed for individuals who need a high level of therapeutic support but do not require 24-hour supervision. This program includes daily group therapy, clinical support, and experiential therapies such as art or recreational therapy.

IOP provides a step-down level of care for those transitioning from PHP or who need more support than traditional outpatient therapy. It includes structured therapy sessions and skill-building groups, allowing individuals to continue their recovery while living at home and maintaining daily responsibilities.

Please note that SUN Behavioral Health Columbus does not provide weekly, traditional outpatient services. Our focus is on intensive, short-term treatment designed to meet acute behavioral health needs.

We’re Here to Help

At SUN Behavioral Health Columbus, we are committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts. If you or someone you love is struggling, know that you are not alone. Help is available—and healing is possible.