What is the first step in treatment planning with suicidal individuals?

Assessing the chronic and acute risk of suicide and deliberate self-harm is crucial as the first step in treatment planning for individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors. This assessment provides a comprehensive understanding of the individual's current mental state, including factors that may elevate the risk of suicide, such as psychiatric history, current stressors, mental health conditions, and any previous attempts or self-harming behaviors.

Identifying the level of risk allows the clinician to tailor their interventions and prioritize safety measures appropriately. For example, if a patient is identified as being at high risk, immediate safety strategies and possibly hospitalization may be considered. Conversely, if the risk is determined to be lower, the treatment approach may focus more on therapy techniques, coping strategies, and building a support network.

Involving family members in treatment, developing a safety plan, or implementing grounding techniques are essential components of comprehensive care, but they should follow a thorough risk assessment. Assessing risk not only guides the immediate response but also informs later steps in the treatment plan, ensuring that interventions are both relevant and timely.