When a client expresses thoughts of not wanting to wake up, what should the counselor do first?

Assessing the client's suicidal intentions is a critical first step when a client expresses thoughts of not wanting to wake up. This indicates a potential risk for self-harm or suicide, and understanding the depth of these feelings is essential for ensuring the client's safety.

By assessing suicidal intentions, the counselor can gain insight into the client's mental state, including any plans, means, or intentions they may have regarding self-harm. This assessment allows the counselor to determine the appropriate level of care and intervention needed, whether that involves crisis intervention, safety planning, or referral for more intensive support.

In this context, recognizing it as a cry for help is certainly important, but it comes after establishing the urgency of the situation. Committing the client to a psychiatric facility is a more drastic step that typically follows an assessment and is not done lightly. Looking for reconciliation opportunities may be beneficial in other contexts but does not directly address the immediate risk associated with suicidal thoughts. Therefore, understanding and assessing the client's intentions is the most crucial initial action for their safety and well-being.