What should be assessed during follow-up assessments?

The rationale for selecting the assessment of all events and thoughts since the last evaluation is critical in the context of suicide risk assessment. This practice focuses on capturing any recent developments in a person's emotional and psychological state, including changes in their mood, recent stressors, and alterations in their thoughts regarding suicide. It allows clinicians to gauge the dynamics of the individual’s mental health and risk factors over time.

By thoroughly understanding what has transpired since the previous assessment, practitioners can make more informed decisions regarding the individual’s current risk level, treatment efficacy, and the need for adjustments in care plans. This ongoing dialogue is vital for establishing support systems and therapeutic interventions that are timely and relevant to the individual’s current situation.

Current medication effects, while important, do not encompass the broad spectrum of an individual's experiences and emotions since the last assessment. Similarly, the frequency of therapy sessions or family history of mental illness may provide useful context but do not capture the immediate and evolving risk factors that the individual faces. Overall, assessing all events and thoughts is a holistic approach that addresses the complexities of mental health and suicide risk.