Passive suicidal depression, characterized by a multitude of wishes for death without actively pursuing self-harm, is a serious concern that warrants attention and treatment. While active suicidal depression poses immediate danger and requires urgent medical intervention, passive suicidal depression should not be dismissed as less significant. In fact, it can persist for extended periods, causing immense suffering and distress.
Drawing from personal experience, the author shares insights into the nature of passive suicidal depression. They describe how, during their own bouts of depression, they would yearn for eternal sleep, count down the hours until bedtime, and fervently pray not to wake up. These thoughts, filled with despair and a desire to escape pain, create a harrowing existence. The author emphasizes that this horror can endure for months or even years, making it a formidable challenge to overcome.
Passive suicidal depression not only affects one’s mental state but can also have physical consequences. When individuals no longer value their lives and wish to relinquish them, accidents and risky behaviors become more prevalent. The author shares their own tendency to be accident-prone during periods of passive suicidal depression, engaging in activities without taking necessary precautions. This lack of self-preservation can lead to self-inflicted injuries or even dangerous encounters with law enforcement, such as “suicide by cop.”
The danger of passive suicidal depression extends beyond physical harm. The inability to recognize the beauty and significance of one’s own life can profoundly impact one’s psyche and soul. It erodes the sense of self-worth and can escalate from a mere annoyance to a life-threatening situation, akin to Chinese water torture.
Addressing passive suicidal depression requires a comprehensive treatment approach. While lithium has shown efficacy in reducing suicidal ideation, it may not be suitable for everyone. The author suggests that improving depression symptoms can alleviate suicidal thoughts, emphasizing the importance of finding the right combination of medications for individual needs. For individuals with bipolar disorder, a cocktail of medications, including antipsychotics and mood stabilizers, may be necessary. Therapy can also provide valuable tools to cope with passive suicidal ideation, even if it cannot directly modify those thoughts.
It is crucial to take passive suicidal depression seriously and seek professional help. Treatment is available and effective, although it may require time and perseverance. Recognizing the value and beauty of one’s life, even in the midst of depression, can significantly improve overall well-being. The author encourages individuals experiencing passive suicidal depression to remain resilient, engage in open conversations with mental health professionals, and persist in finding the right treatment path. Every life is important, even if it feels otherwise in the depths of despair.