The period following an acute suicidal crisis is one of the most vulnerable times for individuals, with a 200x increase in suicide risk within the first three months post-discharge. Despite the availability of crisis resources like the 988 Crisis Line, mobile crisis teams, and crisis facilities, significant gaps remain in ensuring sustained recovery. Long waitlists for ongoing care, lack of consistent support, and limited access to evidence-based interventions exacerbate the challenges. Additionally, individuals often face barriers such as fear of reaching out again, stigma, and access to lethal means, which further heighten the risk of suicide. Without immediate and targeted follow-up care, the transition from crisis to stability remains uncertain, leaving individuals at heightened risk during this critical period.

Solution: Suicide-Specific Interventions

To address the critical gap in post-crisis care, suicide-specific interventions such as interim therapy, safety planning, and lethal means reduction are essential. These evidence-based approaches, combined with multiple contacts each week, have been shown to reduce suicide risk by 30-50%. By eliminating waitlists and providing immediate access to care, individuals can receive the support they need during their most vulnerable moments. Furthermore, aligning these efforts with national and state strategies, such as the 2024 National Strategy for Suicide Prevention and the CDC Action Plan, ensures a coordinated and comprehensive approach. Long-term recovery is further supported by addressing underlying mental health and substance use issues, fostering community support, and promoting sustainability. This multi-faceted approach not only saves lives but also empowers individuals to move toward lasting recovery.

ALIGNMENT
2024 National Strategy for Suicide Prevention
CDC Action Plan
National Strategy for Preventing Veteran Suicide 2018–2028
New Mexico Department of Veterans Services Strategic Plan

* CITATIONS

• Psychotherapeutic interventions in general were significantly more efficacious than control conditions in reducing the risk of future suicidal behaviour nearly by a third. Sobanski T, Josfeld S, Peikert G, Wagner (2021)
• Cognitive behavioral therapy can reduce suicidal ideation & attempts […] as much as 50% among those at high risk.” Tarrier, N., Taylor, K., & Gooding, P. (2008)