Crisis Counselors' Perceptions and Assessment of Suicidal Behavior Among Hurricane Survivors Receiving Crisis Counseling Services.

Abstract

The aims of this study were to assess the awareness of risk for suicidal behaviors and perspectives of Project Recovery counselors who provided crisis counseling services to hurricane survivors. The Short Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Rating Interview-Extended, a quantitative disaster mental health measure, was used to assess distress and dysfunction to the recent hurricanes. Project Recovery counselor data were collected through a 22-item qualitative interview. Seven out of 207 clients (3.4%) endorsed the quantitative item measuring suicidal ideation. Clients who reported suicidal ideation had significantly higher scores on items indicating a loss of enjoyment, feelings of depression, feeling less able to handle stress, and other mental health items. Counselor responses fell into 5 major themes: Assessment and Action, Client Characteristics, Services, Counselor Training and Preparedness, and Future Directions. Suicidal behavior is a serious mental health emergency, yet it remains a challenging issue as suicidal behaviors are complex and disaster survivors with suicidal ideation may experience intense psychological reactions to the event. In order to provide competent care to survivors experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors, the need for counselors to receive adequate training in suicide assessment and management is essential.