I.A.S.P. guidelines for suicide prevention. I.A.S.P. Executive Committee

There are a number of ways in which suicide can be prevented. Broad social issues can be influenced by firm advocacy for change in appropriate areas in different countries, such as by restricting access to specific means of suicide and by enhancing health and social services in general. At the individual level, after the establishment of rapport, there should be screening for the presence of specific mental disorders, which, if present, should be treated vigorously. If medication is indicated, the safest drug should be prescribed, although it is emphasized that even if drugs are utilized, nondrug treatment is important for every suicidal person. The focus of supportive therapy, which can be provided by both the helping professions and volunteer organizations, should be the provision of hope for the future, the enhancement of independence, and the learning of different ways of coping with the inevitable stressors of everyday life. If these guidelines are followed, there is every reason to believe that an impact can be made upon the worldwide problem of suicidal behavior.