@article{ref1,
title="Lethal means counseling for suicidal adults in the emergency department: a qualitative study",
journal="Western journal of emergency medicine",
year="2021",
author="Siry, Bonnie J. and Knoepke, Christopher E. and Ernestus, Stephanie M. and Matlock, Daniel D. and Betz, Marian E.",
volume="22",
number="3",
pages="471-477",
abstract="INTRODUCTION: Lethal means counseling (to reduce access to firearms or other suicide methods) is a recommended critical yet challenging component of care of suicidal patients. Questions remain about communication strategies for those in acute crisis. <br><br>METHODS: This qualitative study was an analysis of semi-structured interviews with English-speaking, community-dwelling adults with a history of lived-experience of suicidal ideation or attempts in themselves or a family member. We used a mixed inductive and deductive approach to identify descriptive themes related to communication and decision-making. <br><br>RESULTS: Among 27 participants, 14 (52%) had personal and 23 (85%) had family experience with suicide ideation or attempts. Emergent themes fell into two domains: (1) communication in a state of high emotionality; and (2) specific challenges in communication: initiating, maintaining engagement, considering context. <br><br>CONCLUSION: Engaging suicidal individuals in lethal means counseling may be more effective when messaging and approaches consider their emotional state and communication challenges.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="1936-900X",
doi="10.5811/westjem.2021.8.49485",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.5811/westjem.2021.8.49485"
}