Question

A 16-year-old First Nations boy from a fly-in community presents with suicidal ideation, low mood, and a history of a close relative who died by suicide. He reports mistrust of "southern" services due to past negative experiences. What is the most appropriate first step that aligns with Indigenous cultural safety and CanMEDS roles?

Accepted Answer

Explore his concerns, assess suicide risk, and offer to involve trusted community supports such as Elders or local mental health workers

Answer

Focus solely on prescribing an antidepressant at this visit

Answer

Encourage him to "look on the bright side" and avoid discussing suicide

Answer

Arrange involuntary admission without further discussion

Answer

Discharge him with a crisis hotline number only

Practice question