Question

A 35-year-old man with known depression tells you in consultation that he has formed a specific plan to kill himself later that day and has written goodbye letters. He lives alone and refuses voluntary admission. What is the most appropriate immediate action?

Accepted Answer

Contact the crisis mental health team urgently and consider Mental Health Act assessment for possible detention.

Answer

Arrange routine community mental health team review within a week.

Answer

Advise him to contact Samaritans if he feels worse and discharge.

Answer

Increase his antidepressant dose and review in 2 weeks.

Answer

Respect his autonomy and document the discussion without further action.

Practice question

A 35-year-old man with known depression tells you in consultation that he has formed a specific plan to kill himself later that day and has written goodbye letters. He lives alone and refuses voluntary admission. What is the most appropriate immediate action?