Table E.4.10 gives examples of the kind of issues that need to be explored when evaluating suicide risk in prepubertal children. Apart from the topics already mentioned, specific aspects refer to the difficulties interviewing children whose comprehension of time, causality and death may be inadequate.
RISK ASSESSMENT
suicide risk is low if:
• There is no major psychiatric disorder present requiring treatment
• The patient is able to form an adequate therapeutic alliance with the clinician
• The suicide attempter did not intend to die
• The patient clearly and believably states that a re-attempt will not take place
• The patient is hopeful about the future and has concrete goals with respect to his engagement in everyday activities • Stable social and family support is available
• No significant life stressors are present.