A Comparative Follow-Up Study of Aftercare and Compliance of Suicide Attempters Following Standardized Psychosocial Assessment

This comparative longitudinal study investigated aftercare & compliance of attempted suicide patients after standardized psychosocial assessment. Structured interviews were conducted 1 month & 6 months after an index suicide attempt. Assessment was associated with more frequent discussion of treatment options with the patient at the hospital & a shorter interval between discharge & contacting the general practitioner. A near significant effect was found for discussion of the suicide attempt with the general practitioner more frequently & with start or change of the medication scheme after the index attempt. Findings support the use of a standardized tool for the assessment of suicide attempters & are in line with the chain of care model for suicide attempters. (19 refs.) JA