ABSTRACT
This chapter indicates that thorough suicide risk assessment probes four primary domains: predisposing vulnerability factors; precipitating events; mental status across affective, cognitive, and behavioral states; and contraindications: coping resources versus failed protections. There is a wide range of vulnerability factors that increase suicidal behaviors among adolescents, including: mental health disorder diagnoses; personality traits; family history; trauma, abuse, and maltreatment; and history of suicidality. Adolescent suicidality is a pressing issue, and the preceding passages provide a framework to assess and treat suicidal youth. Perhaps the most important message to convey is the need to be prepared. Preparation includes a consistent and clear assessment of suicidal ideation and related behaviors and the use of targeted treatment strategies. Moreover, in situations when depressed adolescents are expressing acute or imminent risk, it is crucial for therapists to have a standard operating procedure to manage crises. Collectively, these strategies will improve outcomes for high-risk, depressed youth.
