Citation

Novalis SD. OT Practice 2017; 22(21): CE1-CE7.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2017)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

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Abstract

Suicide is a public health crisis. In 2015, within the United States, 44,193 individuals completed suicide, and an additional 1.4 million individuals attempted suicide (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2017a). Although much remains unknown about the underlying cause of suicidal ideation, behaviors, attempts, and completions, research has indicated contributory (not causal) risk factors and associated warning signs. Because of the multiple complexities associated with treating those at risk (including those who have lost someone to suicide), a holistic approach that recognizes the complexities of the individual, such as the approach of occupational therapy, is crucial. Occupational therapy practitioners from all practice settings need to be aware of the risk factors and warning signs to respond appropriately. Moreover, occupational therapists can enhance their evaluation and treatment approaches by applying models of practice and frames of reference, activity analysis, and through examining the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework: Domain and Process (American Occupational Therapy Association, 2014). © 2017 American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc. All rights reserved.

Language: en