Clinical Manual for Assessment and Treatment of Suicidal Patients: A Comprehensive Guide

Since the first edition of Clinical Manual for Assessment and Treatment of Suicidal Patients was published in 2005, significant advances have been made in understanding suicidal and self-destructive behavior. This new edition, published in 2018, explores not only the assessment of suicidality but also effective intervention strategies for at-risk patients.

Understanding Suicidal Behavior: A Key to Successful Intervention

The authors argue that treating specific psychiatric disorders is not enough to prevent suicide. Instead, they focus on the importance of understanding suicidal behavior as a dangerous and short-term problem-solving behavior designed to regulate or eliminate intense emotional pain. This understanding forms the foundation of the assessment and treatment strategies recommended in the manual.

A Comprehensive Resource for Clinicians

This thoroughly revised edition includes substantive changes to specific chapters, ensuring that the book represents the most current thinking and research in the field. The chapter on assessment has been revised to provide a clinical, case-oriented context, including an easy-to-use assessment protocol that allows clinicians to determine where individual patients stand on seven dimensions:

• Cognitive rigidity
• Problem-solving deficits
• Heightened mental pain
• Emotionally avoidant coping style
• Interpersonal deficits
• Self-control deficits
• Environmental stress and social support deficits

A new chapter addresses the complex issues involved in the use of psychotropic medications in suicidal patients, including information on relevant classes of drugs, side effects, degree of lethality, and potential risks of introducing and withdrawing medication.

Special Populations: Adolescents, Elders, and Co-occurring Disorders

The chapter on special populations has been expanded to include adolescents, elders, and patients with co-occurring substance abuse or psychosis. Treating these groups may require the use of added or special techniques to ensure the best therapeutic outcomes.

Suicidal Patients in Primary Care: Screening, Assessment, and Crisis Management

The chapter “Suicidal Patients in Primary Care” provides strategies for primary care physicians to screen, recognize, and assess risk, treat the initial crisis, and develop a crisis management plan.

Throughout the manual, “Tips for Success” and “The Essentials” sections provide practical guidance and highlight key concepts. Helpful charts and exercises are also included to facilitate learning and application.

This practical, accessible, and reader-friendly manual is an indispensable resource for clinicians working with suicidal patients. It provides a comprehensive guide to assessment and treatment, ensuring that clinicians are equipped to provide effective care and support to those in need.