Which of the following is a sign of potential suicidal ideation?

Expressions of hopelessness are a well-documented sign of potential suicidal ideation. When individuals express feelings of hopelessness, it often indicates that they may feel trapped in their circumstances and believe that there is no way out. This deep sense of despair can lead to contemplating suicide as a way to escape their emotional pain. For mental health professionals, recognizing hopelessness is critical because it can serve as a significant warning sign that intervention may be necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of the individual.

In contrast, increased social activities could be an indication of improved mental health or coping strategies, rather than a sign of suicidal thoughts. Sudden improvement in mood may sometimes be misleading; it could suggest that a person has made a decision about suicide, as they may feel relief from having made a decision, even if it's to end their life. Engagement in risky behaviors can indicate impulsive or destructive behavior patterns but doesn’t necessarily point to suicidal ideation specifically. Understanding these nuances helps pinpoint which signs warrant closer attention when assessing someone’s mental health and risk for suicide.