A patient in crisis tells the nurse he has feelings of helplessness and hopelessness. The nurse identifies that the patient is at risk for:

A. Leaving the hospital Although some patients may leave against medical advice (AMA), helplessness and hopelessness are more directly associated with suicide risk, not elopement. B. Committing suicide Hopelessness and helplessness are strong indicators of suicidal ideation. These feelings suggest the patient may see no escape from their emotional pain. C. A decrease in activity While this could occur in depression, it is a less urgent concern than the immediate risk of suicide. D. Refusing to eat This may occur in some psychiatric conditions but is not as directly tied to feelings of hopelessness as suicidal ideation is.