Ask the Experts On Demand Webinar: Lifting the Veil: Recognizing and Mitigating Suicide Risks-Ask the Experts On Demand Webinar: Lifting the Veil: Recognizing and Mitigating Suicide Risks

Ask the Experts On Demand Webinar: Lifting the Veil: Recognizing and Mitigating Suicide Risks

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The "Ask the Expert" webinar titled "Lifting the Veil: Recognizing and Mitigating Suicide Risks in Epilepsy" was aimed at equipping healthcare professionals with strategies to identify and manage suicidality in epilepsy patients. Dr. Margaret Gopal led the discussion on the importance of recognizing red flags, understanding risk factors and predictors, and responding appropriately to suicidal ideation. She emphasized the higher risk of suicidality in epilepsy patients compared to the general population, underscoring the need for regular screening and customized care approaches. Screening tools like the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview, Beck Depression Inventory, and Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scales were highlighted for their utility in identifying at-risk individuals. Dr. Gopal also discussed the challenges posed by time constraints in clinical settings and suggested practical ways to integrate suicide risk assessments into regular patient care. The interaction with caregivers, the impact of medication side effects, and the need for a multidisciplinary approach were also emphasized. The Q&A session further addressed issues such as the role of anti-epileptic drugs, the importance of caregiver involvement, and the real challenges providers face due to limited consultation time.

Keywords

suicide risks

epilepsy

healthcare professionals

risk factors

suicidality

screening tools

multidisciplinary approach

caregiver involvement

clinical challenges