Family ‐based outpatient treatments: a viable alternative to hospitalization for suicidal adolescents

Historically, inpatient hospitalization has historically been a primary approach for managing risk in suicidal adolescents. However, hospitalization is disruptive and its efficacy in reducing suicide risk for adolescents is unclear. Preliminary data suggest that hospitalization may be iatrogenic and result in increased risk for subsequent hospitalizations and continued suicidal behaviour (Linehan, April 2016; Prinstein et al., ). This paper first discusses potential theoretical pitfalls of psychiatric hospitalization for suicidal adolescents, specifically poor triage to outpatient treatment, stigma, and social isolation. Secondly, we present outpatient family‐based therapy as an alternative evidence‐based approach for treating suicidal adolescents. To achieve this aim we review the existing research base examining specific family‐based outpatient treatments and discuss practical considerations concerning the implementation of family‐based approaches with suicidal adolescents. Practitioner points Inpatient hospitalization is a frontline treatment for treating suicidal adolescents despite the lack of evidence supporting this approach and growing evidence of negative effects Suicidal adolescents can be treated effectively and safely in outpatient settings Several family‐based therapies for suicidal adolescents have been shown to be safe and effective in reducing suicidality and improving family functioning
Source: Journal of Family Therapy - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Tags: Original Paper Source Type: research