www.som360.org/es
Suicide prevention

Should I continuously monitor a person at risk of suicide?

When discussing control from a suicide prevention perspective, we are referring to controlling access to lethal methods , which in our sociocultural context are typically associated with all types of medication. In homes with firearms licenses, access to them must also be restricted. These measures to prevent access to these methods must remain in place for one year after the individual has recovered from their life crisis.

On the other hand, monitoring must be combined with remembering the main objective, which is none other than to help the person connect with life , with a life they understand is worth living. Thus, monitoring also involves facilitating, as much as possible, meetings with friends and participation in recreational activities. In this case, it is recommended that the first outings be with friends known to the family, trusted people who are familiar with the situation of the person being helped.

It's important to balance control with fostering the autonomy of the person affected . The family's attitude should be geared towards being more available when the person needs help. The family member needs to know they are doing everything possible, but always within reason, and the person being cared for needs to perceive that these efforts are never a burden on the caregiver.