Suicide is the third leading cause of death for adolescents in the United States, with nearly nine percent of adolescents reporting a suicide attempt every year. This is a major public health concern, yet there are no evidence-based treatments for these individuals in reducing their suicidal behavior. However, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Suicide Prevention (CBT-SP) is a manualized treatment for this population, which focuses on developing skills that will help the adolescent to refrain from further suicidal behavior. For clinicians, teachers, and parents/caregiver(s), it is important to know that there are options out there to help your adolescent overcome these obstacles, as well as to help them improve their quality of life. Engaging your adolescent in therapy is essential, and being a part of this process is also critical for your child’s mental health and can bring about many positive outcomes.
If you or someone you know is having thoughts about ending your life, please know that you are not alone and there is support out there that can help immensely! You can engage in therapy at any time at Greenridge Counseling Center (215) 487-1330 or email us at Greenridge@intercommunityaction.org.
CBT for Suicide Prevention involves several components, including:
* Safety Planning
* Psychoeducation
* Addressing Reasons for Living and Building Hope
* And many more!
Author: Kelsey Dailey, M.S.
References:
Stanley, B., Brown, G., Brent, D. A., Wells, K., Poling, K., Curry, J., … & Goldstein, T. (2009). Cognitive-behavioral therapy for suicide prevention (CBT-SP): treatment model, feasibility, and acceptability. Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 48(10), 1005-1013.
