Extent and Intensity of Suicidal Ideation and Planning in Patients Presenting With Psychiatric Emergencies

Abstract

Background: In emergency psychiatry high levels of suicidality are encountered. However, empirical studies about the extent of suicidal ideation remain scarce, and data are often gathered retrospectively via medical records. The present observational study aims to assess suicidal ideation, planning, and actions experienced by patients presenting with psychiatric emergencies. Methods: In a consecutive sample of 136 patients, a standard psychiatric examination including the Chronological Assessment of Suicide Events (CASE Approach) was completed. An evaluative monitoring form for the CASE Approach was designed to record and quantify the garnered information. Results: Almost 60% of the patients reported suicidal ideation with some planning. Approximately 25% had experienced over 10 hours of suicidal ideation on their worst days in the past 2 months; 27% had procured their method of choice, and another 27% had practiced a small, moderate, or serious suicide attempt. Conclusion: Findings suggest more intense suicidality in emergency psychiatry than has been reported in previous empirical studies.