Understanding and Managing Suicidality in Patients
1. Introduction to Suicidality in Therapy 0:00
• Importance of addressing suicidality in patients with depression.
• Reference to Beck's book on Cognitive Therapy for Depression.
• Encouragement to explore local and central risk management guidelines.
2. Addressing Myths About Suicidal Thoughts 0:24
• Common myth: Asking about suicidal thoughts may encourage them.
• Reality: Discussing suicidal thoughts can provide relief and necessary information.
3. Key Considerations When Assessing Suicidal Thoughts 1:20
• Content of suicidal thoughts: Specificity and severity.
• Intentionality: Rate intent from 0 to 10.
• Plans: Inquire about current and future plans.
4. Understanding Risk Factors 3:06
• Preparations: Any notes or wills written?
• Precipitating factors: Triggers for suicidal thoughts.
• History of previous attempts and conditional risks.
5. Identifying Protective Factors 5:16
• What stops the patient from acting on thoughts?
• Resilience features: What helps them seek help?
6. Recognizing Warning Signs 5:51
• Secretive behavior or verbal statements indicating distress.
• Importance of recognizing subtle cues.

7. Importance of Risk Management Training 6:39
• Essential for therapists to have basic risk management training.
• First step: Ensure patient knows where to seek help.
8. Engaging with Specialist Services 7:16
• Link patients with specialist services for risk assessment.
• Ensure a viable support system is in place.
9. Therapy Considerations During High Risk 8:18
• Pause therapy if safety is a concern.
• If safe to continue, seek supervision.
10. Exploring Motives for Suicide 9:44
• Differentiate between motives: escaping life vs. interpersonal change.
• Focus on hopelessness or distorted beliefs.
11. Tipping the Balance Against Suicide 11:45
• Play for time until danger period passes.
• Explore reasons for living and avoid dismissive comments.
12. Addressing Hopelessness 13:06
• Use Beck's hopelessness scale to identify feelings.
• Convey alternative interpretations of life situations.
13. Problem Solving Techniques 15:24
• Address practical issues contributing to depression.
• Role play to build confidence in coping strategies.
14. Conclusion and Self-Care for Therapists 16:21
• Acknowledge the emotional toll of discussing suicidality.
• Encourage therapists to practice self-care.