Citation

Michel K, Valach L, Gysin-Maillart A. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017; 14(3): e14030243.

Affiliation

University Hospital of Psychiatry, Outpatient Department, 3008 Bern, Switzerland. anja.maillart@spk.unibe.ch.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2017, MDPI: Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute)

DOI

10.3390/ijerph14030243

PMID

28257071

Abstract

This paper presents a model of suicidal behaviour based on suicide as a goal-directed action, and its implications. An action theoretical model has guided the authors in the development of a brief therapy for individuals who attempt suicide (ASSIP-Attempted Suicide Short Intervention Program). Key elements are an early therapeutic alliance, narrative interviewing, psychoeducation, a joint case conceptualization, safety planning, and regular letters over 24 months. In a randomized controlled trial, ASSIP was highly effective in reducing the risk of suicide reattempts. The therapeutic elements in this treatment are described and possible implications for future directions in clinical suicide prevention discussed.

Language: en

Keywords

action theory; attempted suicide; narrative interview; psychotherapy; suicide; suicide prevention