Psychologists apply their expertise to the problem of suicide from many angles, including:
- Basic science. Researchers explore topics such as genetic susceptibility, brain changes and other complex risk factors associated with suicidal thoughts and behaviors, using tools such as neuroimaging, virtual reality and machine learning.
- Applied science. Psychological scientists design tools such as digital apps and screening methods to assess suicidal thoughts, and new interventions to help those at risk.
- Clinical research. Clinician-scientists bridge the gap between the clinic and the community to test new screening tools and interventions in real-world settings.
- Clinicians. Clinical psychologists treat patients with suicidal thoughts in both inpatient and outpatient settings. They use therapeutic frameworks such as safety planning, dialectical behavior therapy and the collaborative assessment and management of suicidality.
- Educators. Psychology faculty train the next generation of researchers and clinicians in suicide prevention, and they also educate the public about suicide.
- Policy influencers. Psychologists in advocacy roles draw from the latest research to lobby policymakers for legisla- tion to reduce deaths by suicide. This legislation provides funding for suicide research and prevention programs.
