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01-10-2020 | Suicide | Original Article

Managing post-sexual assault suicide risk

Authors: Amanda K. Gilmore, Erin F. Ward-Ciesielski, Anna Smalling, Anne R. Limowski, Christine K. Hahn, Anna E. Jaffe

Published in: Archives of Women's Mental Health | Issue 5/2020

Abstract

Suicidal ideation and suicidal behavior are common after experiencing a sexual assault. Therefore, it is imperative to assess for and manage suicidal ideation using evidence-based techniques after a sexual assault medical forensic examination (SAMFE). We assessed factors associated with higher suicidal ideation identified in a post-SAMFE mental health screening conducted over the phone and strategies to manage suicide risk. We also discuss three case examples and unique considerations when assessing post-SAMFE suicide risk. It was found that among individuals who completed a post-SAMFE screen, individuals who have been previously hospitalized for a mental health problem, who had higher acute stress symptoms, and who were homeless reported more suicidal ideation than those without those histories or symptom presentations. No matter the risk factors for suicidal ideation post-SAMFE, it is essential to screen all individuals post-SAMFE due to their high risk for suicidal ideation and death by suicide.

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Title: Managing post-sexual assault suicide risk
Authors: Amanda K. Gilmore
Erin F. Ward-Ciesielski
Anna Smalling
Anne R. Limowski
Christine K. Hahn
Anna E. Jaffe
Publication date: 01-10-2020
Publisher: Springer Vienna
Keywords: Suicide
Suicide
Published in: Archives of Women's Mental Health / Issue 5/2020
Print ISSN: 1434-1816
Electronic ISSN: 1435-1102
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00737-020-01047-7

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Managing post-sexual assault suicide risk

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Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

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