Addressing Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in Substance Abuse Treatment

This video on Addressing Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in Substance Abuse Treatment was developed by the Department of Veterans Affairs, in collaboration with SAMHSA. The video adapted the contents from the SAMHSA TIP 50, Addressing Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in Substance Abuse Treatment, and is reformatted as a didactic tool for staff who work with persons with suicidal behaviors. A moderator and three member panel discuss ways to manage and address suicidal thoughts and behaviors among individuals with substance abuse issues. Case scenarios are presented and discussed by the panelists.

This video provides with necessary information on "what"," why", and "how" one should treat clients with substance abuse issues and suicidal thoughts and behaviors. It provides information on suicide and substance use disorders, including risk factors, warning signs, and follow-up care. The counseling sessions portrayed in the video employ the specific counseling techniques and the four-step process recommended by TIP 50. You can request a copy of the TIP through http://store.samhsa.gov/product/SMA09-4381

The Suicide Prevention Resource Center (SPRC) website, http://www.sprc.org/, supported by SAMHSA, features resources, news, and research articles related to preventing suicide and treating persons with suicidal behaviors. A September 2010 Webinar on TIP 50 can be accessed at: http://www.sprc.org/trainingin....stitute/disc_series/