Discussion of Suicidality at the TNMU Mental Health Center

On November 21, 2024, the Department of Psychiatry, Narcology, and Medical Psychology organized an event at the Mental Health Center. The meeting focused on the emotional experience of physicians when dealing with suicidality.

Associate Professor Volodymyr Bilous introduced participants to key concepts such as suicidal thoughts, suicidal behavior, and chronic and acute suicidality. Additionally, risk factors, early signs of suicidal tendencies, and aspects of suicidality related to gender, nationality, and social status were discussed.

The event was held in an open discussion format involving students, faculty members, and practicing physicians.

Participants examined the specific challenges of interacting with individuals experiencing acute suicidality. Following an analysis of critical principles for responding to such situations, a practical session utilizing interactive techniques took place, including:

• Role-playing exercise: Volodymyr Bilous played the role of a person ready to commit suicide, while participants acted as bystanders attempting to prevent it through conversation. After the exercise, the group discussed which techniques were effective and which required improvement.
• Group work: Participants, divided into groups of three, worked through critical scenarios. One person played the role of an individual with suicidal intentions, another acted as a rescuer, and the third served as an observer. Post-exercise discussions allowed the analysis of communication strategies and the emotional states of all participants.

Attendees highlighted the high practical value of the exercises, which provided hands-on experience in dealing with suicidality and a deeper understanding of how to respond in such situations.

The main takeaway from the meeting: discussions about suicide do not increase the risk of its occurrence. On the contrary, awareness of the topic and preparedness to act in crises significantly reduce the likelihood of suicide.