Suicide
is a complex behavior usually impacted by a combination of
factors, like thoughts, behaviors, and life situations. Research
shows that almost 95 percent of people who kill themselves
have a diagnosable mental or substance abuse disorder or both,
and primarily have a depressive illness (Reference 4).
Studies indicate that the most promising way to prevent suicide
and suicidal behavior is through the early recognition and
treatment of depression and other mental health diagnoses (Reference
5).
The
following clinical example illustrates how an AOD counselor
in an agency setting might encounter a veiled threat and the
subtle signs and symptoms associated with a suicidal client.
Laurel
has her first session with her client Jon. Jon was
referred to Laurel's agency for substance use problems that
are affecting his work at a local corporation. Laurel
reads the intake assessment and referral notes before her
initial session with
Jon...
Electronic,
print, and multimedia resources are provided to help you to
find additional authoritative information on What to look
for as an AOD Counselor. These resources are available from
such national organizations as The National Institute of Mental
Health as well as professional organizations, not-for-profit
organizations, and educational institutions.
Internet
Center
for Substance Abuse Prevention (CSAP) of the Substance Abuse
and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
CSAP
provides a publication called PreventionAlert. The
article titled, Suicide, depression, and youth drinking from
PreventionAlert, 5(17): December 13, 2002 is available at
the following Web address:
