How BioCare Supports Suicide Prevention: A Community Commitment

At BioCare, we believe that caring for our community goes beyond the physical clean-up services we provide. We recognize the emotional and psychological weight many people carry, and we stand with organizations like Salt Lake Behavioral Health in their mission to address mental health and prevent suicide. Our commitment extends to supporting the prevention of suicide by creating awareness and ensuring people know they are not alone. Suicide, whether passive or active, is a serious issue, and understanding the signs can save lives. In this article, we’ll outline the differences between passive and active suicidal thoughts, how you can help, and how we can all be a part of the solution.

This blog is for educational purposes only. If you or someone you know is feeling suicidal, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255 or visit the nearest emergency room.

Understanding Passive and Active Suicidal Thoughts

Suicidal thoughts can be divided into two categories: passive and active. Both are serious and require attention, but they manifest in different ways.

Passive Suicidal Thoughts
Passive suicidal thoughts occur when an individual feels like they no longer want to live but doesn’t have a specific plan to take their life. These thoughts often sound like, “I wish I could just disappear” or “I wish I wouldn’t wake up tomorrow.” Even though there isn’t an immediate threat, passive suicidal ideation is a severe mental health issue. Individuals experiencing these feelings are in emotional distress and need support from a mental health professional.

Active Suicidal Thoughts
Active suicidal thoughts go a step further. In this case, the person not only feels like they don’t want to live but also has a plan and the means to carry it out. This might sound like, “I’m going to take my life by ___.” Active suicidal ideation is an urgent crisis and demands immediate intervention to ensure the person’s safety.

Addressing Suicidal Thoughts: What Can You Do?
If someone is expressing passive or active suicidal thoughts, it’s important to act. For passive suicidal thoughts, one of the most critical questions to ask is, “Can you commit to staying safe for the next 24 hours?” If they answer yes, it’s vital to connect them with a mental health assessment within that timeframe. If they say no, they should be taken to an emergency room or psychiatric hospital immediately.

When dealing with active suicidal thoughts, hospitalization is often necessary to keep the person safe. During their stay, they will undergo a thorough evaluation, receive therapy, and may be prescribed medications to help stabilize their mood.

BioCare’s Role in Suicide Prevention
BioCare’s commitment to the community involves more than just offering biohazard cleanup services. We also strive to create a supportive, safe environment for families who may be experiencing the after-effects of tragedy, such as suicide. Working closely with behavioral health professionals, we understand the complexities of mental health issues. By fostering awareness and supporting services like those provided by Salt Lake Behavioral Health, we hope to be a resource for those in crisis and their families.

One way we support suicide prevention is by offering compassionate cleanup services after traumatic events, allowing families to focus on healing. We work discreetly and with care, knowing that these are deeply personal moments. We also make it a priority to connect our clients with the right mental health resources. Organizations like Salt Lake Behavioral Health offer free mental health assessments and inpatient care, which can be a vital step in preventing future crises.

Support and Resources
BioCare stands alongside Salt Lake Behavioral Health in providing not only practical support but also information on mental health resources. If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, it’s essential to seek professional help immediately. Salt Lake Behavioral Health offers no-cost mental health assessments and access to intensive care programs to help those struggling with suicidal ideation.

Remember, mental health struggles are not a personal failing. They are challenges that many people face, and with the right support, there is always hope for healing.

Call Salt Lake Behavioral Health for a No-Cost Assessment
If you or a loved one is facing suicidal thoughts, reach out to Salt Lake Behavioral Health at 801-264-6000 for a no-cost mental health assessment.

Let’s work together to create a safe, supportive community where no one feels alone.