Suicidal individuals have the right to have any expression of intent taken very seriously by those to whom they have communicated. Psychologists must guard against bias towards suicidal clients in the guise of presumptions that expressions of suicidal intent represent efforts at control or manipulation. Suicidal individuals have the right to have their suicidal risk viewed as their most serious problem. Psychologists must accord suicidality the utmost priority. Suicidality must be immediately addressed.
Suicidal individuals have the right to be seen as wanting to be helped.
They want their pain to end. Suicidal individuals have severe psychological pain. Pain is an impairment. However, in all but a few States there is little protection from self-harm. The Code should mandate client waivers permitting disclosure if they become suicidal.