[Treatment of patients following attempted suicide within the scope of a liaison service]

Only few patients after suicide attempt are examined by a psychiatrist. In order to intensify the primary psychiatric care of suicide attempters, a psychiatric liaison scheme was established at an intensive care unit of the Technical University, Munich. The main advantages are: A psychiatrist talks with every suicide attempter; the psychiatrist and the medical staff are better informed about the suicidal act and the personality of the suicide attempter because of close cooperation; there is more time for diagnostic and psychotherapeutic activities; suicide risk diminishes while staying on the medical ward. If a psychiatric liaison scheme cannot be established it should be tried to change ward atmosphere by advising the medical staff and offering emotional support.