A primary responsibility of any mental health professional working within the field of corrections is to coordinate an effective suicide prevention program. The present article discusses various aspects of successfully accomplishing this objective. It reviews some of the major warning signs that should be examined by mental health providers evaluating inmates referred as suspected of significant suicidal risk. A method of organizing the suicide assessment and categorizing referrals as inappropriate, malingering, or at true risk is discussed, along with methods of distinguishing among the three types. Some of the primary differences in inmate suicide attempts, as opposed to suicidal gestures, are reviewed as well as other special considerations mental health professionals should consider in formulating recommendations following suicide risk assessments. Finally, various outcome recommendations that can be used as a result of the assessments are presented.
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