Psychotherapeutic Interventions to Prevent Repeated Suicidal Behavior

This paper addresses two questions: Can psychotherapeutic interventions prevent repeated suicidal behavior? If so, what are the mechanisms of action that might explain such interventions? Research that focuses on suicidal behaviors as the outcome and uses psychotherapeutic interventions falls into three main areas: problem-solving strategies, treatment of borderline personality disorder, and modifications of hopelessness. Randomized controlled trials demonstrate the efficacy of these approaches, but to understand mechanisms of action, psychotherapy process research will be needed. Models incorporating emotions, perception of safety or validation, and positive emotions are presented. [Brief Treatment and Crisis Intervention 3:445–464 (2003)]