[Utilization of Outpatient Psychotherapy and Outpatient Psychiatric Treatment by Men and Women after Inpatient Treatment due to Suicide Attempt or Acute Suicidal Crisis].

Abstract

Objective: The strongest predictor of suicide attempts is a previous suicide attempt. Individuals hospitalized for suicidal ideation and behavior face an increased risk of suicide following discharge. This study investigates the extent to which outpatient treatment services are utilized the first 6 months after discharge and whether men and women differ in this regard.

Method: The study examines data of 124 individuals (with suicide attempts (lifetime), 59.7% female) on the use of outpatient treatment services in the 6 months after inpatient treatment.

Results: 37.9% (N=47) of individuals reported not having used any treatment services at all. Men were significantly less likely to make use of the services.

Conclusion: Members of a group with an increased risk of suicide, to a large extent, fail to make use of outpatient treatment services. Discharge management should increasingly focus on (gender-specific) barriers and pave the way for treatment in outpatient.