Foundational skills in the assessment and management of suicide risk in neuropsychological practice

Abstract

Objective: Suicide is a leading cause of death globally. Clinical neuropsychologists may see patients at increased risk of suicide who may have had no prior engagement with another mental health provider. Even if their role is limited to a single encounter, neuropsychologists can still incorporate specific practices (e.g. into their interview appointment) that help reduce a patient’s suicide risk. Method: This review aims to highlight current best practices for suicide risk assessment and management, emphasizing the crucial role neuropsychologists can play in suicide prevention. Conclusions: Neuropsychologists’ involvement in healthcare systems positions them to implement effective suicide prevention strategies, including the Zero Suicide (ZS) framework. The ZS framework is a systematic approach to improve suicide prevention through the implementation of evidence- based strategies including specific strategies to use when working with patients (i.e. identify, engage, treat, and transition). Effective screening tools for suicidal thoughts and behaviors include the Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) and the Ask Suicide-Screening Questions (ASQ) Toolkit. Brief interventions that can be incorporated into an assessment appointment, such as safety planning and means safety interventions, demonstrate significant reductions in suicidal behavior and improved engagement with mental health treatment. Neuropsychologists can refer patients to evidence-based treatments that directly target suicide risk and support at-risk patients through transitions in care by employing strategies like Caring Contacts and structured follow-up calls. By integrating these best practices and engaging in continuous education, neuropsychologists can significantly contribute to reducing suicide risk among their patients.