How to Coach Yourself and Others Empowering Coaching And Crisis Interventions | Page 179

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3. The PsyCheck Suicide / Self-Harm Risk Assessment
Check risk for harm to others following a similar process. A history of violence or aggression towards
others indicates a risk for future harm.
Other factors associated with harm to others are:
• being male
• being under 35 years of age
• having a criminal history
• having a history of using weapons
• having a history of child abuse or mistreatment by others
Current factors to assess include:
• verbal intent to harm others
• paranoid thoughts about others
• preoccupation with violent images and thoughts
• access to lethal means
• high levels of anger, frustration or agitation
• a lack of problem-solving skills
• current role instability (for example changes in work, relationship or accommodation circumstances)
A client poses a high risk of harm to others if some of the following are true:
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male under 35 years of age

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previous history of violence or aggression

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previous use of weapons

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role instability

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paranoid thoughts about others

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increasing anger, frustration or agitation

4. Responding to potential self-harm or harm to others
Managing risks
If there is no risk:
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Monitor the client as required. Check at regular intervals, especially if there are potential triggers
in the future, or there is as history of self-harm.
If the risk is considered to be low:
Monitor the client closely.
Agree on a verbal or written contract to maintain safety and develop a contingency plan that
includes support numbers for out-of-hours counseling services.
Ask for a commitment from the client to follow a contingency plan in the event that their
suicidal thoughts become more prominent.

If the risk is considered moderate:
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Refer the client for further assessment with a mental health service or other service that offers
inpatient facilities in the event of a suicide or self-harm attempt.
Agree on a written contract to maintain safety, and a written contingency plan with the client,
listing supports to be contacted if feelings escalate.
Request the client’s permission to contact their family and/or an emergency mental health
service if necessary.
Consult a supervisor for a second opinion.

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