Preparing questions in advance can help patients and their loved ones have more meaningful discussions with physicians regarding their conditions. Patients and loved ones may wish to ask the doctor the following questions about suicide:

1. Do you have experience treating people who are suicidal?
   
   
2. Someone I know may be suicidal. How can I be sure?
   
   
3. What is “suicidal behavior”? What should I do if someone I know has engaged in such behavior?
   
   
4. Is there a specific way I should approach a suicidal person? What should I do or say? What type of questions are important to ask?
   
   
5. Does my loved one have an underlying disorder that is related to his/her suicidal thoughts or behavior?
   
   
6. What do you think is causing my loved one’s suicidal thoughts or behavior?
   
   
7. Are there medications that may be appropriate for my loved one? What are their side effects?
   
   
8. Which type of psychological therapy would be most effective for my loved one?
   
   
9. Can you recommend a therapist, mental health professional, group or other setting that may benefit my loved one?
   
   
10. Would you recommend hospitalization? What are the benefits and/or risks associated with inpatient psychiatric care?
    
    
11. How can I prevent my loved one from future suicide attempts?