Doctors on the Frontline: Screening for Suicide Risk
Research shows that The Three To Six Months after a suicide attempt are the most high-risk period for a reattempt and for death.
Imagine visiting your doctor and realizing that simple questions could save your life. This episode of 'The American Health Podcast' zeroes in on the crucial role clinicians play in suicide prevention. Did you know that nearly 75% of people who attempt suicide have seen their primary care doctor in the month before their attempt? Yet, it's only recently that doctors and nurses have started receiving training to screen for suicide risk among their patients.
This episode is part of a series dedicated to National Suicide Prevention Month, focusing on evidence-based practices to tackle this pressing issue. The discussion highlights essential tools like the ASQ (Ask Suicide-Screening Questions) and the CSSRS (Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale), which have proven effective in identifying at-risk individuals. You'll also learn about free online resources that help clinicians gain the skills they need to screen for suicide risk effectively.
The episode delves into the joint commission guidelines for screening in medical settings and emphasizes the importance of means restriction and follow-up care after a suicide attempt. One of the most innovative ideas presented is a text message support program designed for patients who have attempted suicide or been admitted to the hospital for suicidal ideation. This low-cost, highly effective program offers social support and promotes continuity of care during high-risk periods.
Whether you're a healthcare professional or someone interested in understanding more about suicide prevention, this episode provides valuable insights and practical solutions. Tune in to discover how clinicians can become frontline defenders against suicide, making a real difference in their patients' lives.