Just because I've had thoughts of suicide, does that mean I have depression?

Question

I have had thoughts of suicide, and sometimes I've felt like everything was hopeless and that I couldn't move on.

But my dad can be a worrywart too. Is it in my genes or could I have a problem?

Answer 1

There are a few cases where thoughts of suicide isn't caused by clinical depression (immediately after a tragedy, for example), but those cases are few and far between.

I think you should err on the side of caution and speak with your doctor. Thoughts of suicide and hopelessness aren't signs of just being "a worrywart". It's much more serious than that.

If these thoughts are compelling enough that you wonder if you'll be able to overcome them every single time, you ABSOLUTELY need to talk to your doctor. No choice about it, you need to do it.

If it's a passing thought that is not an impulse and you've never come close to acting on it, I still think you need to talk to your doctor, particularly if you have other signs of depression. If you are easily irritated or sad, have feelings of hopelessness, lose interest in things you used to enjoy, sleep much more or less than usual, eat much more or less than usual, lose interest in personal hygiene, or have thoughts of hurting yourself or others, over a period of two weeks to a month, you need to discuss with your doctor.

Basically, I think you should talk with your doctor either way. It can't hurt. But if you think you WOULD commit suicide that discussion should be sooner rather than later.

Answer 2

Hey, can you tell us how often you have these thoughts of suicide? Because clinical depression is defined as a feeling of overall, persistent sadness over a long period of time (I believe its 2 weeks). You also need to have at least 5 of the symptoms of depression (things like, lack of enthusiasm in favorite activities, decreased interaction with friends and family, changes eating or sleeping patterns, etc.). It's possible that you might have clinical depression, and if you are seriously worried, consult a doctor. Are you going through hard times now? If you are, then its possible that you are just reacting to these difficulties. I feel hopeless all the time, but I know I don't have depression. But if you truly feel on the verge of committing suicide, please see a doctor! Suicide is not the right path to take, and it would hurt all the people around you who love you! I hope you feel better soon! Best wishes =)

Answer 3

Why do you have those thoughts? Do they all occur during the same situation; around the same person? Try first to rid yourself of the stressor. More people share this feeling than you think. I've had those types of thoughts during arguments with an ex boyfriend. I thought i was depressed for a while. I thought all was hopeless and didn't want to move on. I finally got the courage to get rid of that boyfriend. Arguments stopped, and over time while actively doing stuff JUST FOR ME like working out or spending time doing things i love, i got happy again. I'm so glad that i didn't ever leave this world, because nothing is worth dying for. Live for you.

Answer 4

No, you have a real problem. If you need to talk to someone, call the National Helpline Network at 1-800-SUICIDE. They should have an extension of it in your area. You can call with any kind of emotional distress, you dont have to be suicidal. You can also call if you have a friend who you know is suicidal. It's anonymous and free, and they can refer you to a counselor or support group in your area. I've called before, as I have felt the same way you are feeling right now, in the past. They are very understanding, and good listeners. And they always tell you to call back if you need to talk more. It is a 24 hour helpline. I found them through an ad in one of my magazines several years ago. If you would like to talk to me, you can IM me from my profile. I've experienced these feelings, and a few of my friends have before as well.

God Bless You

Answer 5

They usually go hand in hand, but if you have a worrywart gene from dad, it could be that you just get stressed and overwhelmed and feel like you have no other option. You need to go see someone for some "talk" therapy and possible medication.

Answer 6

Yes, you have depression and yes it is genetic. A doctor can determine if it is clinical depression or exactlly what the problem is. You need to see a doctor for help. There are many medicines which can help with suicidal thoughts. Get treatment now, don't wait until it is too late.

Answer 7

sounds like depression

you can see a counselor or call the Girls and Boys Town National Hotline, 1-800-448-3000 a 24-hour crisis, resource and referral line for teens and parents struggling with suicide, depression etc.

Answer 8

You have depression and anxiety - try to focus your attention on other important matters. Suicide is an act of cowardice. You have only one life to live and live it to the fullest extent. Make others happy and try to be happy.

Take Rescue Remedy mother tincture 2 drops on the tongue morning and evening and you will be fine.

Answer 9

See suicidal thoughts, depression and anxiety (to help him) at http://www.ezy-build.net.nz/~shaneris on pages 5, 2, & 6.

Answer 10

Yes you do sound like you are suffering from depression. Yes it can and does often run in families. My Mother was depressed, as was her Mother (my Grandmother) and depression runs on my Fathers side as well with my father and his Father ( my Grandfather) suffering from bouts of clinical depression.Medication and talk therapy helped me.I am seeing signs of depression from my son as well. I am tiring to convince him to seek help but for now he is tiring alternatives,ie: Valerian root,St. John's Wort, Melatonin.He says things are better. I would like to see him inter into talk therapy.But he does have his work and I told him he can always talk with me.