Can we predict or prevent suicide?: An update.

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Public Health
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• A 2006 review examined empirical data on predicting suicide deaths and prevention.
• Further data updates this review, assessing the efficacy of clinical prediction and intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate current empirical evidence on the predictability of suicide fatalities by clinicians.
• To determine the effectiveness of clinical interventions in preventing suicide deaths.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review and meta-analysis of empirical research on suicide prediction and prevention.
• Analysis of data comparing treatment outcomes for suicide attempters versus those who die by suicide.

Main Results:

• Existing empirical data do not support the ability of clinicians to predict suicide fatalities.
• Psychotherapy and medication effectively reduce suicide attempts but not necessarily fatalities.
• Individuals who die by suicide are distinct from attempters; high-risk individuals may not seek treatment.
• Reducing access to lethal means shows the strongest evidence for suicide prevention.

Conclusions:

• Predicting suicide fatalities remains unsubstantiated by current research.
• Population-based suicide prevention strategies are more effective than individual-focused, high-risk approaches.
• Future research should focus on population-level interventions and understanding the distinct factors influencing suicide completion.