C-L Case Conference: The Case of a 34-Year-Old Male Veteran with Suicidal Ideation in the Context of Alcohol Intoxication

Abstract

We describe the case of a 34-year-old male veteran who presents to the emergency department with suicidal ideation while intoxicated on alcohol. From his progression from intoxication through sobriety, this case details changes in his suicide risk during the sobering process. Consultation-liaison psychiatrists present guidance for this clinical scenario based on their experiences and a review of the available literature. The following important concepts for managing suicide risk among patients with alcohol intoxication are considered: evaluating for medical risk, timing the suicide risk assessment, anticipating withdrawal, diagnosing other disorders, and achieving a safe disposition.

Keywords: alcohol intoxication; alcohol use disorder; emergency department; safety risk assessment; suicidal ideation.