Treatment Adherence and Recurrence of Suicidal Behaviour in a Cohort of Suicide Attempters in a Nurse‐Led Suicide Prevention Programme

Introduction Individuals who attempt suicide are at high risk of recurrence and mortality, particularly in the first year. Nurse‐led follow‐up programmes can mitigate this risk through structured, therapeutic engagement. Aim To examine adherence to a nurse‐led mental health follow‐up programme and its association with the recurrence of suicidal behaviours. Method This cohort study included 306 adults who had attempted suicide, who were enrolled in a one‐year suicidal behaviour case management programme (SBCMP) led by mental health nurses. Outcomes for programme completers were compared with non‐completers. Adherence was assessed at 12 months, while suicide attempts and mortality were tracked over 24 months. Results All five scheduled SBCMP visits were completed by 48% of patients. Programme adherence was associated with significantly lower rates of psychiatric hospitalisation (4.8% vs. 11.3%; p = 0.036) and of repeated suicide attempts at 6 months (3.4% vs. 10.1%; p = 0.02) and 12 months (8.2% vs. 15.9%; p = 0.039). No suicides occurred in the first year; however, a suicide (1%) was recorded in the second year. Discussion This study highlights the role of structured follow‐up programmes led by mental health nurses in improving treatment adherence and reducing suicidal behaviour. Implications for Practice Integrating suicide prevention interventions in clinical practice is a cost‐effective strategy to support high‐risk individuals and improve outcomes.