Should Suicide Prevention Be Central to Emergency Department Trauma Care? (Behavioral and Psychological Interest Group-Sponsored)

Trauma patients presenting to the emergency department (ED) often face both physical injuries and underlying psychological distress, creating an opportunity for integrated care. Emerging evidence shows that trauma is a significant contributor to suicidal ideation and behaviors. The connection between physical trauma—especially from accidents, violence, or self-harm—and mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) underscores the need for a comprehensive approach. In response, the American College of Surgeons (ACS) has mandated that trauma centers screen for mental health conditions, including suicidal ideation, depression, and anxiety. This initiative, which began earlier this year, requires trauma centers to implement mental health screenings for patients admitted with traumatic injuries and refer those in need for further intervention and treatment. The ED-SAFE 2 trial also supports the idea that suicide prevention should be a core focus in ED settings, showing that screening, safety planning, and post-discharge follow-up significantly reduce suicide attempts. This session will explore the clinical, logistical, and ethical considerations of integrating suicide prevention into ED trauma care, striving to balance trauma care and mental health interventions in resource-limited environments.