What are the best practices for collaborating with other providers in suicide prevention?

2 Communicate clearly and regularly

Another key practice for collaboration is to communicate clearly and regularly with the other providers. You can use various methods, such as phone calls, emails, or secure messaging, to exchange relevant and accurate information about your client's situation, needs, goals, and progress. You can also establish a common language and framework to avoid misunderstandings or conflicts. For example, you can use the Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality (CAMS) approach, which is a structured and collaborative way to assess and manage suicide risk. Communicating clearly and regularly can help you create a consistent and supportive plan for your client.

3 Respect roles and boundaries

A third practice for collaboration is to respect the roles and boundaries of the other providers. You can acknowledge and appreciate the expertise and contributions of each provider, while also clarifying your own role and scope of practice. You can also avoid duplication or overlap of services, and instead, complement and reinforce each other's interventions. For example, you can focus on providing practical and logistical support, while the therapist can focus on providing emotional and cognitive support. Respecting roles and boundaries can help you foster a collaborative and respectful relationship with the other providers.

4 Involve the client

A fourth practice for collaboration is to involve the client in the process. You can empower your client to participate in the decision-making, goal-setting, and feedback-giving of their care. You can also respect their autonomy, preferences, and values, while also providing education and guidance on suicide prevention. You can also encourage your client to use their own strengths and resources, as well as the support of their family, friends, or community. Involving the client can help you enhance their engagement, motivation, and empowerment.

5 Evaluate and improve

A fifth practice for collaboration is to evaluate and improve the outcomes and quality of your collaborative efforts. You can use various tools, such as surveys, feedback forms, or case reviews, to measure and monitor the impact and satisfaction of your collaboration. You can also identify and address any challenges, gaps, or barriers that may hinder your collaboration. For example, you can seek consultation, supervision, or training to improve your skills or knowledge on suicide prevention. Evaluating and improving can help you ensure that your collaboration is effective, efficient, and ethical.

6 Seek support

A sixth practice for collaboration is to seek support for yourself as a case manager. You may face various stressors, such as high caseloads, complex cases, ethical dilemmas, or vicarious trauma, that can affect your well-being and performance. You can seek support from your colleagues, supervisors, mentors, or peers, who can offer you emotional, practical, or professional assistance. You can also use self-care strategies, such as setting boundaries, managing time, coping with emotions, or seeking help when needed. Seeking support can help you maintain your health, resilience, and competence as a case manager.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?