NCJ Number
130497
Date Published
1988
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This discussion of suicide prevention in police lockups outlines those characteristics unique to police lockups and jails that make them likely settings for suicide; identifies predisposing factors, high risk suicide periods, and the signs and symptoms of potential suicide; and describes an appropriate screening process and sample guidelines for assessing the physical and mental health of arrestees prior to incarceration.
Abstract
Inmates in jails and police lockups commit suicide at a rate 16 times greater than individuals in the general population. Police officers who are knowledgeable and alert to the signs and symptoms can prevent many potential suicides. Recent, excessive drinking is a leading predisposing factor. Loss of stabilizing resources or surroundings and severe guilt or shame about the offense and its consequences also can act as catalysts toward suicide. The most crucial high risk period for suicide is during the first 24-hours of incarceration, specifically the first three hours. The key symptoms of depression, which is the single best indicator of potential suicide, are outlined. Properly trained lockup officers can effectively assess and identify inmates for potential suicide. Such assessment should be included in the overall screening process for medical and mental health problems. A sample screening health form is provided.