CDP Presents: Lethal Means Safety Counseling to Reduce Suicide Risk
Originally presented - 27 September 2018
Description: Reducing access to suicide methods that are highly lethal and commonly used is a proven strategy for decreasing suicide rates. While some suicidal crises last a long time, most last minutes to hours. Limiting access to lethal means during periods of crisis can make it more likley that the person will delay or survive a suicide attempt. This course will explain the importance of safely storing lethal means, how to discuss storage options and safety planning with a Veteran in crisis, and tangible options to facilitate lethal means safety such as firearm locking devices, medication disposal kits, and VA resources for both Veterans and their clinicians.
Learning Objectives:
- Describe the importance of reducing access to suicide methods that are highly lethal and commonly used such as firearms and medications.
- Employ motivational interviewing techniques to discuss lethal means storage options and safety planning with Veterans in crisis.
- Utilize lethal means safety materials and VA resources during lethal means safety counseling.
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