Suicide thoughts and behaviour cont.
When a young person has already harmed themselves Current plan: Find out if the young person is thinking about attempting suicide and if they have a plan. Those at highest risk of attempting suicide are those with a specific suicide plan. Ask them if: – They have a suicide plan and how specific it is i.e. when and where it would or could take place – They know what they would use to carry out their plan i.e. pills, gun etc – They have been using drugs or alcohol (intoxication can increase the risk of a person acting on suicide thoughts on impulse) Past behaviour: Young people are at greater risk of dying by suicide if they have attempted to do so in the past or are displaying risk-taking behaviour. Ask them if: – They have attempted suicide before – Anyone close to them has ever experienced suicide thoughts or behaviour – They self-harm or have been taking greater risks recently Resources: Assess what supports the young person already has in place. This may help you if you need to call professional emergency help. Ask them if: – They have told anybody else about how they are feeling – They are already in touch with mental health services – There are resources in place they use to support themselves, such as friends, family, or helplines?
Page 294
Made with FlippingBook - Online magazine maker