ABSTRACT
This chapter examines data and findings on the formal assessment of suicide risk, and provides recommendations for the consideration of risk factors, protective factors, and symptoms presentation. In addition, common obstacles for mental health providers in approaching clients exhibiting suicide risk are examined and recommendations for a variety of formal and structured approaches in the assessment of suicide are discussed. The formal assessment of suicide risk is a practice in which medical professionals, mental health practitioners, and at times peace officers assess an individual for the potential to harm the self, others, or for grave disability. Mental health practitioners and health care professionals who lack competence and training treating individuals with suicidality are shown to hinder recovery, as well as the disclosure of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. The Risk Management Foundation of the Harvard Medical Institution (RMFHMI) states that adequate assessment of potentially suicidal clients begins with a comprehensive psychiatric and psychological evaluation.
