Which symptom describes recurrent thoughts of death or suicidal ideation?

Which symptom describes recurrent thoughts of death or suicidal ideation?

• A. Fatigue
• B. Recurrent Thoughts of Death
• C. Insomnia or hypersomnia
• D. Functional Impairment

Answer: (B)

Recurrent thoughts of death describe suicidal ideation, a specific symptom where a person contemplates death or self-harm. When these thoughts recur, it signals ongoing risk and the need for careful safety assessment and intervention. Fatigue, sleep disturbance (insomnia or hypersomnia), and functional impairment are common features in mood and other disorders, but they do not by themselves indicate thoughts about death. Therefore, the description of recurrent thoughts of death is the best match for suicidal ideation.

Recurrent thoughts of death describe suicidal ideation, a specific symptom where a person contemplates death or self-harm. When these thoughts recur, it signals ongoing risk and the need for careful safety assessment and intervention. Fatigue, sleep disturbance (insomnia or hypersomnia), and functional impairment are common features in mood and other disorders, but they do not by themselves indicate thoughts about death. Therefore, the description of recurrent thoughts of death is the best match for suicidal ideation.