Citation

Zortea TC, Cleare S, Melson AJ, Wetherall K, O'Connor RC. Br. Med. Bull. 2020; ePub(ePub): ePub.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2020, British Council, Publisher Oxford University Press)

DOI

10.1093/bmb/ldaa013

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Suicidal behaviours and non-suicidal self-harm (NSSH) are global public health concerns that affect millions of lives.
SOURCES OF DATA: This review is a narrative synthesis of systematic reviews, meta-analyses of randomized control trials (RCTs) and landmark studies published in scientific journals.
AREAS OF AGREEMENT: Restricting access to lethal means reduces the likelihood of future suicide deaths.
AREAS OF CONTROVERSY: Our ability to predict future suicidal behaviour is no better than chance. No individual risk prediction instrument offers sufficient sensitivity and specificity to inform clinically useful decision-making.
GROWING POINTS: Different types of psychosocial interventions may be effective in preventing future suicide attempts; such interventions include clinical assessment, tailored crisis response and safety plans and follow-up contact.
AREAS TIMELY FOR DEVELOPING RESEARCH: Whilst some psychosocial interventions can be effective in reducing suicide risk, little is known about the mechanisms of recovery from suicidal thoughts and behaviours.

Language: en

Keywords

treatment; suicidal behaviour; suicide science