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Identifying and Responding to Suicidality: Evidence-Based Strategies for Early Childhood Home Visitors

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Abstract

Suicide is a major public health issue, and a leading cause of death in the United States. Caregivers of young children with or at-risk for disabilities and developmental delays may experience significant life stressors that increase their risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Early childhood special education (ECSE) home visitors may be in a prime position to notice and intervene in these situations but may lack the training and confidence to do so. This article outlines evidence-based strategies for identifying and responding to possible suicidal thoughts and behaviors in the context of ECSE home visiting.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Educational Studies in Psychology, Research Methodology and Counseling, University of Alabama, PO Box 870231, Tuscaloosa, AL, 35487, USA

    Emily M. Lund

  2. Department of Special Education, University of Illinois—Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA

    Catherine P. Corr

  3. Department of Special Education and Clinical Services, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, USA

    Lillian K. Durán

Authors
  1. Emily M. Lund
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  2. Catherine P. Corr
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  3. Lillian K. Durán
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Correspondence to Emily M. Lund.

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Lund, E.M., Corr, C.P. & Durán, L.K. Identifying and Responding to Suicidality: Evidence-Based Strategies for Early Childhood Home Visitors. Early Childhood Educ J 50, 949–957 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10643-021-01228-8

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10643-021-01228-8

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