Practice Parameter for the Assessment and Treatment of Children and Adolescents With Suicidal Behavior

These guidelines review the epidemiology, causes, management, & prevention of suicide & attempted suicide in young people. Detailed guidelines are provided concerning the assessment & emergency management of children & adolescents who present with suicidal behaviour. Intervention in the community after a suicide, minimization of suicide contagion or imitation, & the training of primary care physicians & other gatekeepers to recognize & refer the potentially suicidal child & adolescent are discussed. (189 refs)