A 24-year-old man presents with 2 months of low mood, anhedonia and passive suicidal ideation. He has a specific plan but no immediate access to means...

Question

A 24-year-old man presents with 2 months of low mood, anhedonia and passive suicidal ideation. He has a specific plan but no immediate access to means and agrees to seek help if worse. What is the most appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Urgent psychiatric assessment and safety planning; consider hospitalisation if risk escalates

Answer

Discharge with reassurance only

Answer

Start antidepressant and review in one month without further discussion

Answer

Tell him suicide is illegal and he must stop thinking this way

Answer

Avoid documenting suicidality

ca-mccqe1 MCQ (SBA): Suicide risk assessment

A 24-year-old man presents with 2 months of low mood, anhedonia and passive suicidal ideation. He has a specific plan but no immediate access to means and agrees to seek help if worse. What is the most appropriate next step?