Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Suicidal Behavior with Donna M. Sudak, M.D.

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In a recent webinar hosted by the American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry and SAMHSA, Dr. Donna Sudak addressed cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) approaches for suicidal patients. The session, part of a series on Advanced Addiction Psychotherapy, aimed to equip Addiction Psychiatry fellows and faculty with evidence-based tools for managing suicidal behavior.<br /><br />Dr. Sudak emphasized a strategic approach to treating suicidal behavior, distinct from CBT for depression, which targets suicidal behavior explicitly. She underscored the importance of understanding the underlying mechanisms that lead to suicide as a problem-solving strategy, emphasizing factors like hopelessness, cognitive distortions, and emotional pain. The role of the therapeutic alliance was highlighted as crucial for motivating patients to engage in change efforts.<br /><br />Key interventions discussed included detailed safety planning, removing access to lethal means, and crafting a "hope kit" containing reminders of reasons for living. Dr. Sudak stressed the significance of building hope, enhancing coping skills, and practicing problem-solving strategies. She also pointed out the association between accessing emergency services and implementing a safety plan to decrease risk.<br /><br />Participants raised questions about liability concerns and the use of safety contracts, with Dr. Sudak advising against reliance on no-suicide contracts. Instead, she recommended structured safety plans as evidenced by their effectiveness. Dr. Sudak's next session will tackle CBT for adult ADHD, continuing the series' focus on addressing complex psychiatric challenges through focused psychotherapy training.

Keywords

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Suicidal Behavior

Addiction Psychiatry

Therapeutic Alliance

Safety Planning

Hope Kit

Coping Skills

Problem-Solving Strategies

Emergency Services

Safety Plan

Liability Concerns

Adult ADHD

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