Suicide Screening and Care Help Lead to Recovery

Suicide is a serious public health problem in the United States, with more than 49,000 people estimated to have died by suicide in 2022. But evidence-based approaches—universal suicide screening, safety planning, and connections to care—can reduce suicide risk and help save lives. Eleven years ago, Erin Goodman revealed her suicidal thoughts to a primary care doctor who was not equipped to intervene with evidence-based care; shortly after, she survived a suicide attempt.

Dr. Edwin Boudreaux, a clinical psychologist at UMass Memorial Medical Center, explains the importance of health care teams whose members are trained to provide and coordinate care for people at risk of suicide. He also speaks about expanding the use of health care interventions such as universal screening and safety planning, which can help patients experiencing suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Today, Goodman trains health providers in these suicide care practices.

As health systems increasingly use these interventions and other tools to help address suicide risk, more people have the chance to experience recovery.