A 58-year-old man with a three-month depressive episode tells his general practitioner, quietly and without be…

Question

A 58-year-old man with a three-month depressive episode tells his general practitioner, quietly and without being asked, that he has been thinking about ending his life and that the thoughts come most days. He has never harmed himself before. He has lived alone since separating from his wife. He is not intoxicated and there is no evidence of psychosis. The doctor intends to cover all of the following before he leaves the room. Which one of the following questions should be asked next?

Accepted Answer

Have you thought about how you would do it?

Answer

Are there things that stop you acting on these thoughts?

Answer

How much are you drinking at the moment?

Answer

Is there anyone at home with you?

Answer

Would you accept a referral to a psychiatrist?

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