Citation

Healy K, Chamberlain J. Therapeutic Communities 2005; 26(2): 206-214.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2005)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

We present some findings from an audit on suicides associated with intensive inpatient treatment at the Cassel Hospital. We identify the characteristics of patients likely to be most at risk of suicide during treatment. We give two examples to illustrate the interplay between intra-psychic dynamic factors in the individual patient and the intra-psychic, interpersonal, and institutional factors that ordinarily keep these suicidal dynamic forces in check. We highlight some staff and institutional dynamic factors that can lessen the psychological containment available from staff for patients struggling with suicidal impulses. Active involvement of staff in the relationships formed in treatment, and attention to individual and institutional dynamics, alongside anticipation of the impact of any gaps in staffing levels are recommended to lessen the likelihood of suicide during treatment. © The Authors.

Language: en

Keywords

human; psychotherapy; suicide attempt; suicidal behavior; risk assessment; article; hospital admission; psychodynamics; medical audit; mental hospital; risk management; transference; individualization; mental health care personnel; therapeutic community