Assessing suicide risk

When to assess suicide risk

Women who appear to have suicidal thoughts (e.g. have a positive response on Q10 of the EPDS) should be asked about suicidal thinking and self-harm behaviour.  Such enquiry does not induce thoughts of suicide, rather it provides an opportunity to ensure the safety of the woman and arrange appropriate follow-up care.

Assessing the risk of suicide

Assessing risk involves asking about the frequency and persistence of suicidal thoughts, whether the woman has planned her suicide, what method she has chosen and how lethal it is and whether she has the means to carry this out.

Consideration should also be given to risk and protective factors, mental state, history of suicidal behaviour, substance use, strengths and available supports.

Whenever assessing a woman for risk of suicide, enquiry should be made about her risk to the infant.

Developing a safety plan

A safety plan is a prioritised list of coping strategies and sources of support that women can use when they experience suicidal thoughts.  Safety plans should be frequently revisited and modified as needed.

The development of a safety plan involves assisting the woman to identify warning signs, coping strategies, people who can assist at times of need and health professionals and agencies that can be contacted for help.

Further information

The Australian National Suicide Prevention Strategy (NSPS) website includes comprehensive resources on suicide prevention strategies, risk and protective factors, the relationship between mental health and suicide and issues specific to certain groups, such as residents of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and rural and remote communities.