Suicidal behaviour in children and adolescents. part 2: Treatment and prevention

Objective: To systematically review the treatment of suicidal behaviour in children and adolescents. Method: After discussing the principles of treatment, we review the literature regarding adequate assessment, hospital-based services and their alternatives, and follow-up. Results: Treatment modalities (including psychotherapy) and preventive strategies (including school-based interventions, gatekeeper and primary practitioner training, and treatment of psychiatric disorders) are considered in the light of existing evidence. Conclusions: The assessment of youth at risk for suicide should include attention to well-established risk factors, but prediction of risk remains difficult. Treatment of suicidal children and adolescents should be evidence-based and may include psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Effective methods of prevention are emerging, but more research is needed.