An Approach to the Patient in Crisis: Assessments of the Risk of Suicide and Violence

Suicide is one of the leading causes of death in the United States and is defined as intentional self-harm with the intent of causing death. Various mental disorders may be a cause for increased violence. This article outlines the elements of the risk assessment (for harm to self and/or others) in patients in crisis and addresses which contributing factors may be modifiable. This article also proposes a practical framework for the management of risk regarding suicide and violence.