Active suicidal ideation is characterized by which of the following?

Active suicidal ideation is indeed characterized by thinking about ending one’s life and potentially having a plan. This means the individual not only has thoughts about suicide but is also considering concrete steps to carry out that intention. This reflects a higher level of risk, as it demonstrates both the presence of suicidal thoughts and an element of planning, which indicates a greater likelihood that the person may act on these thoughts.

In contrast, having a desire to sleep and not wake up can indicate feelings of hopelessness or depression but does not necessarily imply active thoughts or plans about committing suicide. Feelings of hopelessness without specific intentions reflect an emotional state that may be troubling but lacks the urgency or detail found in active suicidal ideation. Similarly, a general wish to avoid life’s challenges indicates a desire for escape but does not have the clarity or seriousness committed to the act of suicide itself. Both of these descriptions point to significant distress but do not meet the criteria for active suicidal ideation, which encompasses both thoughts and the consideration of an actual plan.