How can intent be inferred clinically in a suicide assessment?

Inferring intent clinically during a suicide assessment can significantly hinge on observable behavior or circumstances presented by the patient. This approach allows a clinician to gather tangible evidence of a patient’s mindset and emotional state, which can be more telling than verbal assertions alone. For instance, signs of distress, changes in mood, withdrawal from social interactions, or indications of planning behaviors (such as acquiring means) can provide critical insights into an individual’s suicidal intent.

While verbal denial of intent can certainly be a part of the assessment, it does not serve as a reliable indicator of actual intent, as individuals may deny their feelings or thoughts for various reasons, including fear or stigma. Similarly, while the severity of previous attempts might inform risk levels, it does not directly reflect current intent without considering the patient's current circumstances or behaviors. Family interviews can offer valuable information but are not the sole measure of intent and should be combined with direct clinical observations.