The integrated motivational–volitional (IMV) model of suicidal behaviour proposes a three-phase framework to understand the progression from suicidal ideation to action. The pre-motivational phase involves background factors and triggering events, such as biological, genetic, or cognitive vulnerabilities and life stressors. The motivational phase focuses on psychological processes leading to suicidal ideation, including feelings of defeat and entrapment, which are influenced by factors like socially prescribed perfectionism and rumination. The volitional phase involves factors that govern the transition from suicidal ideation to action, including access to means, exposure to suicidal behaviour, capability for suicide, planning, impulsivity, and mental imagery. The model suggests that volitional moderators (VMs) are crucial in determining whether suicidal thoughts lead to action. Empirical support for the model is growing, with studies showing that factors like entrapment and past suicide attempts predict readmission to hospital for self-harm. The model also highlights the importance of understanding the dynamic and cyclical nature of suicidal ideation and behaviour. Future research should focus on refining the model, exploring the role of context and temporal fluctuations, and utilizing new methodologies like ecological momentary assessment. The model has implications for intervention and suicide prevention, emphasizing the need for tailored approaches based on the phase of the model an individual is in. Overall, the IMV model provides a comprehensive framework for understanding and addressing suicidal behaviour.The integrated motivational–volitional (IMV) model of suicidal behaviour proposes a three-phase framework to understand the progression from suicidal ideation to action. The pre-motivational phase involves background factors and triggering events, such as biological, genetic, or cognitive vulnerabilities and life stressors. The motivational phase focuses on psychological processes leading to suicidal ideation, including feelings of defeat and entrapment, which are influenced by factors like socially prescribed perfectionism and rumination. The volitional phase involves factors that govern the transition from suicidal ideation to action, including access to means, exposure to suicidal behaviour, capability for suicide, planning, impulsivity, and mental imagery. The model suggests that volitional moderators (VMs) are crucial in determining whether suicidal thoughts lead to action. Empirical support for the model is growing, with studies showing that factors like entrapment and past suicide attempts predict readmission to hospital for self-harm. The model also highlights the importance of understanding the dynamic and cyclical nature of suicidal ideation and behaviour. Future research should focus on refining the model, exploring the role of context and temporal fluctuations, and utilizing new methodologies like ecological momentary assessment. The model has implications for intervention and suicide prevention, emphasizing the need for tailored approaches based on the phase of the model an individual is in. Overall, the IMV model provides a comprehensive framework for understanding and addressing suicidal behaviour.