Suicide risk assessment w Dr Cheryl Buhay.

Suicide continues to be a major public health issue in Aotearoa New Zealand, touching every clinician working in primary care. General Practice is often the first, and sometimes only, point of contact before a suicide attempt — meaning GPs are uniquely placed to identify risk, provide support, and intervene early.

In this episode of The Specialist GP, host Dr Louise Kuegler speaks with Dr Cheryl Buhay about the latest suicide data, key risk and protective factors, and effective management strategies. Together, they discuss how primary care teams can safely assess and manage suicide risk, when to escalate concerns, and how to look after themselves and colleagues affected by suicide.

The conversation also explores the importance of clinician wellbeing, collaboration with specialist services, and building confidence in these difficult but crucial consultations.

Key Discussion Points

• Current suicide data and inequities across age, gender, and ethnicity
• The most common risk factors and protective factors in suicide prevention
• How to conduct a safe, empathic, and thorough risk assessment
• When and how to involve specialist mental health services
• Support options for clinicians following patient suicide or distressing events

Practical Clinical Pearls

1. Risk assessment runs parallel to diagnosis – consider both static and dynamic risk factors across social, mental, and physical domains.

2. Maintain a high index of suspicion – approach with empathy, curiosity, and non-judgement.

3. Don’t overlook broader risks – such as poor self-care, child safety, or physical health deterioration.

4. Watch for paradoxical calm – a patient who suddenly appears serene after deep distress may be at increased risk.

5. Use the team – involve nursing, community, and peer supports early.

6. Seek help when unsure – contact local mental health triage or crisis services for immediate consultation.

Clinician Wellbeing

Caring for someone at risk of suicide can be emotionally demanding. GPs are encouraged to access support through:

• EAP programmes (RNZCGP, MAS, MPS)
• Skylight Trust – 0800 299 100 | www.skylight.org.nz
• Aoake te Rā – free counselling for people bereaved by suicide | 0800 000 053 | www.aoaketera.org.nz
• After a Suicide NZ – www.afterasuicide.nz

Email: thespecialistgp@outlook.co.nz

Website: https://www.thespecialistgp.co.nz/