ABSTRACT
Suicidal behavior is the commonest emergency faced by psychiatrists. Handling suicidal patients is also the most anxiety-provoking situation for mental health professionals. Suicide and suicidal ideation are easily understood, but the terms attempted suicide and self-harm encompass a wide variety of behaviors. In many low- and middle-income countries, suicide is seen as shameful, sinful, selfish, weak, or manipulative. Most suicidal patients are willing to discuss their thoughts if asked, but it has been shown that only one in six clinicians inquire into the matter. The assessment of the risk of suicide in every person is unique, complex, and challenging. The psychiatric disorders that are associated with an increased risk of suicide are mood disorders, alcohol and substance use disorders, psychotic disorders, anxiety disorders, and personality disorders. Measures of suicidal intent and lethality are commonly used to determine the seriousness of suicide attempts.
