When working with a depressed patient, what is essential to assess first?

When working with a depressed patient, assessing suicidal intent is essential because it directly relates to the patient's safety. Depression can lead to significant feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, and despair, which may increase the risk of suicide. Understanding whether a patient is experiencing suicidal thoughts, has a plan, or has made previous attempts is critical for determining the level of risk and the necessary interventions.

In situations where a patient is at risk of harming themselves, prioritizing their safety is the foremost responsibility of the clinician. If a patient indicates suicidal intent, immediate measures can be taken to ensure their safety, including possible hospitalization or crisis intervention.

Other aspects, such as substance use history, support systems, and coping mechanisms, are important for treatment planning but take a secondary role to assessing immediate threats to life. Recognizing and addressing suicidal intent helps establish a secure environment for further therapeutic work and explores deeper underlying issues contributing to the depression.