What is the difference between active suicidal ideation and passive suicidal ideation?

The distinction between active suicidal ideation and passive suicidal ideation is critical in mental health assessment and intervention. Active suicidal ideation refers to thoughts that not only include a wish to die but also involve planning or intent to carry out self-harm or suicide. This could manifest as specific thoughts about how to commit suicide, identifying means, or setting a timeline, indicating a higher level of risk.

In contrast, passive suicidal ideation reflects a more general desire to be dead without any specific plans or intentionality to cause harm. Individuals with passive ideation may think about wanting to die but do not have specific methods or an intention to act on these thoughts. This indicates a lower level of immediacy and risk compared to active ideation.

Understanding this difference is vital for mental health professionals when evaluating the severity of a patient's condition and determining the necessary level of care or intervention. The other options provided do not accurately capture the critical components of intent and planning that differentiate active from passive suicidal ideation.