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Determining suicide risk (hint: a screen is not enough)
Jess G Fiedorowicz1, Kija Weldon, George Bergus
1Departments of Psychiatry, Carver College of Medicine, Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA. jess-fiedorowicz@uiowa.edu
The Journal of Family Practice
|June 15, 2010
Summary
Individualized assessments are key to identifying suicide risk factors. Direct questioning and restricting access to lethal means are effective strategies for suicide prevention.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Public Health
Background:
- Identifying individuals at risk of suicide is a critical public health concern.
- Effective screening and intervention strategies are needed to reduce suicide rates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline best practices for assessing and managing suicide risk.
- To provide guidance on effective communication and intervention techniques.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing individualized assessments to identify specific risk factors.
- Employing direct questioning to screen for suicidal ideation.
- Involving family or friends to limit access to lethal means.
Main Results:
- Direct questioning is effective in identifying suicidal ideation.
- Restricting access to lethal means enhances patient safety.
- "No harm" contracts are not recommended due to lack of effectiveness.
Conclusions:
- Individualized assessment and direct questioning are crucial for suicide risk evaluation.
- Collaborating with family and friends to remove lethal means is a vital safety measure.
- Alternative strategies should be prioritized over "no harm" contracts in suicide prevention efforts.
