Clinical Practice SWES Practice Exam

What is the main focus of therapy for someone with bipolar disorder as they exhibit signs of suicidal intent?

1. Exploring childhood trauma

2. Addressing immediate safety concerns

3. Maintaining medication adherence

4. Improving coping mechanisms

The correct answer is: Addressing immediate safety concerns

Focusing on immediate safety concerns is paramount when dealing with someone exhibiting signs of suicidal intent, especially in the context of bipolar disorder. Individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts may be in a vulnerable state that requires urgent intervention to ensure their safety and prevent self-harm. Addressing these safety concerns involves assessing the risk of suicide, providing support, and sometimes ensuring a structured environment where the individual is monitored closely. In acute situations, this could mean hospitalization or intensive counseling to stabilize the person and create a safety plan. Once the immediate threat is addressed, additional therapeutic goals such as medication adherence and coping mechanisms can be pursued, but the priority must always be the person's safety. This approach underscores the critical need for mental health professionals to respond swiftly to threats of self-harm to safeguard the well-being of their clients.