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What is suicidality?

Suicidality, or suicidal ideation, refers to a spectrum of thoughts and behaviours related to suicide.

Ranging from fleeting ideas about death or wishing to die, to developing plans or taking actions to end one’s life, suicidality is a serious condition. It is often associated with conditions such as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or chronic pain, and may arise from intense psychological distress, hopelessness, or a perceived loss of meaning or connection.

Suicidality is a serious clinical concern that requires compassionate and timely support. It does not necessarily mean a person wants to die—it often reflects a deep desire to escape unbearable emotional pain. With appropriate safety planning and therapeutic intervention, recovery is possible.

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Common features of suicidality

Suicidality arises when psychological pain, hopelessness, and disconnection outweigh a person’s perceived ability to cope or find relief.

Suicidality can present in different ways and often coexists with depression, trauma, or chronic pain. It can include feelings of intense hopelessness, emotional numbness, or trapped that life will not improve. Sleep disturbance, intense mood changes, withdrawal, and persistent thoughts of death or dying may occur. Believing others would be “better off” without you and planning or preparing for suicide (e.g. giving away possessions).

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When to seek help

If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of suicide, it is important to seek help immediately.

Understanding suicidality as a symptom of unbearable distress allows timely, compassionate, and life-saving intervention. Suicidal thoughts are a sign of deep distress, but with the right support, recovery is possible.

If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, seek help immediately. You are not alone, and help is available 24 hours a day.

In an emergency:

If you need urgent support:

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How can we help

We work closely with patients and their health team to provide advanced treatments for people struggling with suicidality when linked to depression, PTSD or chronic pain.

Traditional antidepressants may take weeks to work, leaving patients in danger during critical moments. Advanced therapies, such as ketamine, has demonstrated rapid anti-suicidal effects, helping to keep people safe while longer-term treatments take hold.

Ketamine therapy

Ketamine therapy has been shown in research to rapidly reduce suicidal thoughts, often within hours, providing a crucial window of safety and relief.

Ketamine therapy
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Integrated psychiatric care

Ketamine therapy is not a standalone solution. We work with your psychiatrist, GP, psychologist and care team to ensure ongoing support, therapy, and longer-term medication strategies.

Our treatments
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Our unique approach

Suicidality requires urgent, compassionate, and supportive care.

At Anodyne, we prioritise rapid intervention, continuous monitoring, and collaborative care to ensure safety and stabilisation — addressing the biological and psychological factors contributing to suicidal distress.

What to expect

Conduct thorough assessments to ensure safety and suitability

1.
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Deliver therapies in accredited facilities under close monitoring

2.
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Collaborate with existing treating teams, ensuring continuity of care

3.
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Focus on stabilisation, reducing risk, and supporting recovery

4.
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Why choose Anodyne?

We understand the urgency and seriousness of suicidality.

Our team combines psychiatric expertise with advanced therapies to offer immediate relief and safe, compassionate care. We are committed to walking alongside patients during some of their most vulnerable moments.

About Anodyne
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Want to know more?

Take the next step

If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, please seek help immediately through emergency services or crisis lines. In conjunction with your treating team, Anodyne may be able to provide advanced therapies to support your recovery. Book an appointment or make an enquiry to learn more.


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