When is outpatient treatment NOT recommended after a suicide attempt?

Outpatient treatment is generally not recommended when a patient shows severe agitation because this symptom often indicates a heightened risk for further self-harm or suicide. Severe agitation can reflect an underlying mental state that is unstable and poses an immediate threat to the individual's safety. In such situations, close monitoring and a more intensive level of care are required to ensure the patient's needs are met and to prevent further suicide attempts.

On the other hand, good family support, a stable living environment, and the ability to cooperate with follow-up appointments are all factors that generally facilitate outpatient treatment. These elements help provide a safety net, ensuring the patient has the necessary resources and support systems in place for a successful recovery post-attempt. Outpatient treatment relies heavily on the patient's stability and support, which is why those conditions are seen as favorable for continuing care outside of a hospital setting.