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Suicidal ideatoin (SI), or suicidal thoughts, is the persistent, and sometimes infrequent, contemplations of ending one’s life. Suicidal ideation may also manifest as imagining oneself no longer being apart of the world or indifference to being alive. Suicidal ideation is often associated with various other mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and others. It can also occur in response to significant life stressors such as a loss of a loved one.

It’s important to note that not everyone who experiences suicidal ideation will act on these thoughts. However, having suicidal thoughts on a frequent basis warrants an assessment by a professional and should not be delayed. The severity of SI is often hard to assess, but if these thoughts start turning into a plan, or increase in frequency or intensity, then emergency help is urgently needed.

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Ketamine has a robust body of science to support the use of the drug reducing suicidal ideations, often with significant results within the first treatment session. Co-morbid conditions of SI, such as depression and anxiety are concurrently treated with depression. In other words, ketamine is used to not only safely and rapidly reduce thoughts of suicide, but also treat the source of the SI.

We encourage patients during their ketamine treatment to stay connected with family, friends, and other support networks. Working with either one of AVYIA’s therapists, using ketamine assisted psychotherapy, or a patient’s own therapist, has been shown in studies to enhance the efficacy of recovery.

What Are the Statistics Say?

Prevalence

Center of Disease Control (CDC) in 2020 states 12.2 million American adults seriously thought about suicide, 3.2 million made actual suicide plans 1.2 million individuals attempted suicide.

Age of onset

Suicidal ideation can occur at any age, but it is most common among young people. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide is the second leading cause of death for individuals aged 10-34 in the US.

Gender differences

Women are more likely than men to experience suicidal ideation. However, men are 3.9x more likely to die by suicide than females, in part due to their increased use of lethal means.

Comorbidity

90% of those who died by suicide had a diagnosable mental health condition at the time of their death and are associated with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, drugs and alcoholism.

Disability

In 2021, firearms were the most common method of death by suicide, accounting for a little more than half (54.64%) of all suicide deaths. The next most common methods were suffocation (including hangings) at 25.80% and poisoning (including drug overdose) at 11.56%.

Access to treatment

Although effective treatments for mental health conditions associated with suicidal ideation are available there may be significant disparities in access to care based on factors such as race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status.

Obsessions Are Persistent

It is essential to recognize the symptoms early if you, a friend, or a family member experience suicidal ideations.   Recognition of these signs can help you seek timely assessments and potentially life-saving interventions.  Suicidal ideation signs and symptoms vary from individual to individual, but they may exhibit one or many of the following signs:

  • Expressing a desire to not be alive, regretting being born, or suggesting that others would be better off without them.
  • Withdrawing from social contact and avoiding others.
  • Preparing for suicide, such as obtaining a weapon or researching methods.
  • Engaging in risky behaviors, such as excessive alcohol or drug use.
  • Showing signs of anxiety or becoming easily agitated.
  • Wanting to give away persona

Depression and Suicidal Ideation (Suicidal Depression)

Although “suicidal depression” is not an official clinical diagnosis, it typically refers to individuals who have major or clinical depression and are experiencing suicidal thoughts. It’s important to note that not everyone will exhibit the same signs, and some individuals may conceal their feelings. However, here are some common symptoms that may be indicative of suicidal ideation:

Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and sadness

Signs of anxiety, agitation, irritability or anger

Emotional distress, hopelessness and despair

Loss of interest in prior hobbies and passions

Fatigue, changes in appetite or weight

Insomnia or difficulty getting out of bed

Increase in risk-taking or abusive behaviors

Verbalizing about dying and/or giving away possessions

Preoccupation with the topic of death

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“Ketamine rapidly reduced suicidal thoughts, within 1 day and for up to 1 week in depressed patients with suicidal ideation.”

Wilkinson ST, Ballard ED, Bloch MH, Mathew SJ, Murrough JW, Feder A, Sos P, Wang G, Zarate CA Jr, Sanacora G. The Effect of a Single Dose of Intravenous Ketamine on Suicidal Ideation: A Systematic Review and Individual Participant Data Meta-Analysis. Am J Psychiatry. 2018 Feb 1;175(2):150-158. doi: 10.1176/appi.ajp.2017.17040472. Epub 2017 Oct 3. PMID: 28969441; PMCID: PMC5794524.

If you wish to make an apple pie from scratch, you must first invent the universe.

Conventional treatments for suicidal ideations often target the mental health issues that contribute to or exacerbate them.  This often involves talk therapy and medications for conditions like depression, anxiety, and mood stabilization.  In emergency situations, inpatient therapy is often used to manage safety.  This process can sometimes take weeks or months to make sufficient and effective progress.

However, ketamine therapy offers a unique approach to treating suicidal ideation.  Unlike traditional medicines such as SSRI’s, ketamine therapy can provide possible relief in a matter of hours, rather than weeks to months.  Ketamine can quickly restart connections in the brain, promoting neuroplasticity and treating even the most persistent of mental health conditions.  More and more doctors and scientists have observed ketamine’s safety and effectiveness, and it’s remarkable promise in treating mental health disorders and suicidal ideation.

Ketamine therapy can be especially beneficial for those who struggle with long-term treatment compliance.  Taking pills and going to therapy for months on end can be hard for some.  For those that prefer immediate results that lasts, AVYIA’s IV ketamine program consists of 6 treatments over 3 weeks.  AVYIA does not recommend patients come off of their existing treatment programs.  However, ketamine therapy is a great addition to existing treatment regimes, as well as a great alternative.  AVYIA’s ketamine therapy has helped many patient’s suffering from acute and chronic mental health diseases in a more timely manner.

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“The present analysis provides evidence of improvement in SI in a cohort of veterans with PTSD+MDD. Improvements in suicidality were correlated with PTSD symptom subscales and pain independent of improvement in depression. This report extends the interpersonal theory of suicide as it applies to posttraumatic pathology by demonstrating a significant association between improvements in all subclusters of PTSD, improvement in pain and improvement in suicidal ideation.”

Albott, C. S., Lim, K. O., Forbes, M. K., Thuras, P., Wels, J., Tye, S., & Shiroma, P. (2019). 3525 improvement in suicidal ideation after repeated ketamine infusions: Relationship to reductions in symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, and pain. Journal of Clinical and Translational Science, 3(s1), 46–46. https://doi.org/10.1017/cts.2019.110

When to Consider Therapy for Suicidal Ideation

If you’ve tried any or all the below treatments and have found less than optimal relief, or short-lasting relief, then ketamine is worth exploring. It can be overwhelming to constantly battle mental health illness and navigate through the health care system, so we are happy to provide a free consultation to discuss whether ketamine is a good fit for you.

Here are some other types of treatment interventions:

Psychotherapy or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

These sessions with a therapist can be beneficial, but they require significant commitment, and it's not always clear when they will provide relief.

Antidepressants or Mood Stabilizers

It's common to treat related depression and anxiety with medication, but finding an effective fit can be challenging. They take time to test, and their effectiveness can decrease over time.

“Self-Medication”

When prescribed treatments aren't effective or affordable, patients may risk self-medication.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation

Several studies have investigated the use of TMS for suicidal ideation, and although there have been some positive findings, the results have been mixed for many.

Electroconvulsive Therapy

A procedure that involves passing electrical currents through the brain to intentionally induce a controlled seizure. ECT can be effective, but the cost and time commitment can be overwhelming.

Hospitalization

Inpatient therapy can be helpful for assessing care plans, but it's temporary and can quickly become emotionally and financially draining for suicidal patients.

From Desperation to Healing: Ketamine's Impact on Suicidal Thoughts

Not everyone who is thinking about suicide desires death.  For many, it’s a cry for help because they don’t see any other option.  Help does indeed exist and there is a way out.  If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, encourage them to seek immediate support from a mental health professional or call/text “988” Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

AVYIA believes that ketamine can save and change lives.  We also don’t believe in false promises or claims.  All of our treatment programs are evidenced-based, and science-backed.  In addition to the treatment of mental health illnesses, AVYIA hopes to provide support to those whom are struggling and in need of healing.  Its transformative effects can bring relief, allowing individuals to break free from the depths of despair and embrace life with newfound strength and clarity.  This effective treatment can foster a sense of renewal, guiding the mind away from darkness and empowering the will to live.

We encourage our patients to continue working with their therapists and counselors when receiving ketamine therapy.  Patients have reported that ketamine treatment can help them approach their situation more objectively, with less despair and apprehension.

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Microdosing Tablet

$125 per Month / $4 per Daily Dose
Telehealth, Follow-ups, and Medication

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IV Infusion

6 treatments in 2-3 weeks / $3000 for 6 dosing sessions
Includes Telehealth, 6 home visits and medication

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Intranasal Spray

8 treatments in 4 weeks / $3600 for 8 dosing sessions
Includes Telehealth, 8 home visits and medication

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“The therapeutic onset of traditional antidepressants is delayed by several weeks and many depressed patients fail to respond to treatment altogether. In contrast, subanesthetic ketamine can rapidly alleviate symptoms of depression within hours of a single administration, even in patients who are considered treatment-resistant. Ketamine is thought to exert these effects by restoring the integrity of neural circuits that are compromised in depression. This hypothesis stems in part from preclinical observations that ketamine can strengthen synaptic connections by increasing glutamate-mediated neurotransmission and promoting rapid neurotrophic factor release.“

Riggs, L. M., & Gould, T. D. (2021). Mechanisms of Ketamine Action in Depression: Current Understanding. Annual Review of Clinical Psychology, 17, 207-231. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-clinpsy-072120-014126

Frequently asked questions

Why Does Suicidal Ideation Occur?

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Suicidal ideation—the presence of thoughts about ending one’s life—can arise when depression or other mental health conditions are left untreated. It is a serious symptom and often reflects deep emotional pain, hopelessness, or overwhelming distress. Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts should seek professional support immediately—help is available, and healing is possible.

Several common factors may contribute to suicidal ideation, including:

  1. Persistent feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness

  2. Traumatic experiences, such as emotional or physical abuse, the death of a loved one, or major life crises

  3. Social isolation or lack of a support network

  4. Financial hardship or relationship difficulties

  5. Substance abuse, which can worsen mood and impulsivity

  6. History of suicidal thoughts or behaviors

At AVYIA, we recognize the urgency and complexity of suicidal ideation. We offer evidence-based treatment options, including ketamine therapy, which has shown promising results in rapidly reducing suicidal thoughts in patients who haven’t responded to traditional treatments.

Is Suicidal Ideation a Medical Emergency?

Yes—suicidal ideation can be a medical emergency, especially if someone is in immediate danger of harming themselves.

If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts—especially with a plan or intent to act—it is critical to seek help immediately. Do not wait for a therapy session or routine appointment.

What to do in a medical emergency?

  • Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room

  • Contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.): just dial 988

  • Do not leave the person alone—stay with them or ensure they are with a trusted adult

How Long Does the Improvement Last After Treatment for Suicidal Thoughts?

AVYIA’s IV and intranasal ketamine treatments typically provide the most immediate relief from suicidal thoughts—often within hours to days. However, the duration of remission can vary significantly depending on individual factors such as overall mental health, trauma history, coexisting conditions, and ongoing support.

While data is still emerging, some studies report that approximately 38% or more of patients achieve full remission after completing 6–10 treatment sessions. However, it is difficult to predict who will achieve full remission or how many treatments are needed, as multiple factors affect individual’s condition.

In many cases, symptom relief lasts for several weeks to several months after a successful course of treatment. If symptoms return, booster sessions can be scheduled periodically to maintain progress and prevent relapse.

For those seeking a more gradual, daily approach, oral microdosing with sublingual ketamine tablets is a strong alternative. While symptom relief can begin within days, patients on microdosing protocols often experience sustained remission after an average of 9 months.

To enhance and extend the benefits of ketamine therapy, AVYIA recommends pairing treatment with psychotherapy. This approach, known as ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP), can help patients process emotional experiences, reinforce progress, and reduce the risk of relapse.

Where is the Ketamine Treatment Conducted?

AVYIA’s ketamine therapy program is performed in the comfort of your home.

At AVYIA, ketamine treatment can be conducted in the comfort of your own home, depending on the route of administration and medical eligibility.

Receiving treatment at home offers several benefits:

  • Reduced anxiety and stress: Being in a familiar environment can help patients feel more at ease, especially compared to traditional clinical settings.

  • Greater convenience and privacy: At-home care eliminates the need for travel, offers more scheduling flexibility, and allows for a higher level of personal privacy.

  • One-on-one clinical attention: Patients receive focused, individualized care from a licensed medical provider throughout the entire session.

  • Emotional support: Having loved ones nearby during and after treatment can be deeply reassuring. Family involvement is a key factor in emotional healing and can play an important role in preventing suicidal thoughts.

  • Accessibility: Home-based treatment makes ketamine therapy more accessible for those with mobility issues, social anxiety, or logistical challenges.

Whether you’re receiving IV, IM, or intranasal ketamine, our healthcare team ensures safe, professional, and compassionate care in the setting that best supports your well-being.

Will Ketamine Treatments Be Required for the Rest of My Life?

No, ketamine treatment is not meant to be lifelong. At AVYIA, our goal is to help patients reach disease remission—a state where symptoms are significantly reduced or completely resolved. While we can’t predict exactly when remission will occur, we’ll be with you every step of the way.

Although individual responses vary, the evidence behind ketamine’s effectiveness gives us confidence in offering this safe and promising treatment. We cannot guarantee results, but many patients have experienced life-changing improvements.

  • IV and intranasal ketamine treatments often provide rapid relief, sometimes after just a few sessions. Many patients do reach full remission after 6–10 treatments. However, the duration of remission varies and depends on many personal factors.

  • Daily microdosing with oral tablets is a gentler, long-term alternative. While symptom relief can begin within days, many patients experience sustained remission within a year.

Treatment plans may involve booster sessions or adjustments as needed, but the ultimate goal is to help you feel better and stay well—not to rely on ketamine forever.

Is Ketamine Treatment Painful?

No, ketamine treatment is generally not painful. The only moment of minor discomfort may be the quick needle prick during setup for IV or IM administration. After that, the treatment itself is painless, and many patients describe the experience as calming, introspective, or even enjoyable.

For intranasal and oral (microdosing) routes, there are no needles involved, making the process completely non-invasive.

Our team at AVYIA ensures your comfort throughout the entire session, with close monitoring and personalized care.

Will Ketamine Make Me Hallucinate?

Ketamine may cause mild hallucinations or dissociative experiences during treatment, especially when administered through IV, IM, or intranasal routes. These effects are temporary, typically lasting only during the session, and are closely monitored by our medical team to ensure your safety and comfort.

Many patients describe these experiences as:

  • Feeling like they’re observing themselves from outside their body

  • Seeing visual patterns or distortions with eyes closed

  • Experiencing dreamlike or surreal sensations

For individuals struggling with suicidal thoughts, it’s important to know that these effects are not dangerous and are part of how ketamine works to reset brain activity and mood pathways. In fact, the dissociative effect is believed to help “interrupt” negative thought cycles and reduce emotional pain.

At AVYIA, our goal is to help you feel safe and supported throughout the process. A responsible adult is required to be present after treatment, and we’ll walk you through exactly what to expect—before, during, and after each session.

If you’re concerned about how you’ll feel during treatment, we’re here to talk it through. You’re not alone—and you’re in good hands.

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