A client tells a nurse. “Everyone would be better off if I wasn’t alive.” Which nursing diagnosis would be made based on this statement?

Correct Answer: C. Risk for self-directed violence

The nurse should take any nurse statements indicating suicidal thoughts seriously and further assess for other risk factors. The early identification and appropriate treatment of mental disorders is an important prevention strategy – especially given the relevant contribution of depression and other psychiatric problems to suicidal behavior. Equally important is early identification and treatment for people with alcohol and substance abuse problems.

• Option A: A variety of stressful events or circumstances can put people at increased risk of harming themselves including the loss of loved ones, interpersonal conflicts with family or friends, and legal or work-related problems. To act as precipitating factors for suicide, though, they must happen to someone who is predisposed or otherwise especially vulnerable to self-harm. The early identification and appropriate treatment of mental disorders is an important prevention strategy – especially given the relevant contribution of depression and other psychiatric problems to suicidal behavior. Equally important is early identification and treatment for people with alcohol and substance abuse problems.
• Option B: People who are suicidal generally express difficulty in solving problems. Behavioral therapy approaches are designed to probe underlying factors and to help patients develop problem-solving skills. While conclusive answers are not yet known, there is some evidence to suggest that behavioral therapy approaches are effective in reducing suicidal thoughts and behavior.
• Option D: Certain social and environmental factors also increase the likelihood of suicide. Rates of suicide, for instance, are higher during economic recessions and periods of high unemployment. They are also higher during periods of social disintegration, political instability, and social collapse.