A 37-year-old woman arrives to the clinic with a history of recurrent severe depressive illness. Her father died last month after a protracted illness, and she fears her sadness will resurface. The patient has a low appetite, sleeps badly, and has difficulty concentrating on her teaching profession. She lately quit coming to the gym and hanging out with friends, both of which she used to like. She's been gathering pills from half-empty bottles of old medicine and contemplating taking them all at once. The patient has no history of suicidal ideation. Her mother committed suicide at the age of 40. Which of the following is the most essential element in determining this patient's risk of suicide?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Eductional Objective: Suicidal patients should be evaluated for intent and plan. Patients who have active suicidal ideation and intent and have made plans to commit suicide using a specific technique are most vulnerable.

A 37-Year-Old Woman Arrives to the Clinic with a History