Assessing Self-Harm & Overdose in Clinical Practice

In this episode, we discuss how to approach suicide risk assessment and overdose history taking in a structured, sensitive and clinically safe way. This episode is intended for medical students and healthcare professionals learning how to assess risk and conduct these conversations appropriately in OSCE exams and clinical practice. We cover: • How to structure an overdose history (before, during, after) • Exploring intent, planning and impulsivity • Assessing mood, hopelessness and protective factors • Psychotic symptoms and suicide risk • Social stressors and forensic history • Substance use in context • Physical symptoms following overdose • Risk factors vs protective factors • How to stratify risk safely • A full example OSCE-style patient scenario This is an educational discussion designed to support safe clinical practice. If you are personally struggling with thoughts of self-harm or suicide, please seek professional support or contact local emergency services. Disclaimer OSCE Talk is an educational resource designed primarily to help healthcare students prepare for clinical examinations. Episodes on the key, exam-relevant and salient points of each topic and are not intended to provide a complete or exhaustive review of clinical management. ​ Content is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for formal teaching, clinical supervision, local policies or current national guidance. While we aim to keep our content accurate and useful, medical guidance changes over time and episodes may contain omissions or necessary simplifications. ​ Always refer to appropriate guidance when making clinical decisions or caring for patients.