Suicide and suicidal behaviours: implications for mental health services.
OBJECTIVE
To examine what is known about engaging and maintaining suicidal individuals in treatment and what can be learned from the randomized, controlled trials of psychosocial interventions concerning the reduction of suicidal behaviours.


METHODS
Review of the relevant literature.


RESULTS
Treatment follow-through is low among those who attempt suicide. The evidence to date is inconclusive as to whether psychosocial interventions can reduce the repetition of suicidal behaviour.


CONCLUSIONS
Certain groups may benefit from psychosocial interventions. Future research must overcome several methodological issues. As treatment relies on adequate follow-through, changes in the delivery of care may enhance treatment effectiveness.
Rhodes
A E
AE
St Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario. rhodesa@smh.toronto.on.ca
Links
P S
PS
D001519:Behavior; D003695:Delivery of Health Care / Q000592:standards; D006801:Humans; D008605:Mental Health Services / Q000592:standards*; D013406:Suicide, Attempted / Q000523:psychology*