Risk-Rescue Rating: A Systematic Approach to Evaluating Risk and Resilience in Mental Health
Mental health is a major public health concern, with an estimated 4.3% of the global population suffering from a mental disorder in any given year (World Health Organization, 2019). One of the key challenges in tackling mental health issues is accurately assessing and managing risk. Risk-rescue rating (RRR) is a system that has been developed to help clinicians identify and address risk factors for individuals with mental health problems. This article outlines the principles of RRR and describes its applications in clinical practice.
RRR is based on the idea that risk and resilience are two sides of the same coin, and that each can be assessed to understand an individual’s risk level. Risk factors are defined as variables that are associated with an increased likelihood of developing a mental health problem, while resilience factors are variables that are associated with a decrease in likelihood of developing a mental health problem. RRR is a five-step process that involves identifying risk and resilience factors, evaluating their levels, creating a risk-rescue score, and developing a plan of action.
The first step of RRR is to identify both risk and resilience factors. Risk factors can be identified by taking a comprehensive history and assessment of the individual. This includes asking about the individual’s past mental health history, current stressors, family history, and any challenges they may be facing. Resilience factors can be identified by looking at the individual’s coping strategies, support system, and any positive life experiences.
The second step of RRR is to evaluate the level of risk and resilience factors. This involves assessing the current severity and duration of risk factors, as well as the current level of resilience factors.
The third step of RRR is to create a risk-rescue score. This score is based on the severity and duration of risk factors, as well as the level of resilience factors. The score can range from 0 to 10, with 0 representing low risk and 10 representing high risk.
The fourth step of RRR is to develop a plan of action. This plan should outline the steps that need to be taken to reduce the risk level and increase resilience. This could include referring the individual to a mental health specialist, providing psychoeducation, and providing psychotherapy.
The fifth and final step of RRR is to monitor and evaluate the plan. This involves assessing the individual’s progress and making any necessary changes to the plan.
Overall, RRR is a systematic approach to identifying and addressing risk and resilience in individuals with mental health problems. It is based on the idea that risk and resilience are two sides of the same coin, and that each can be assessed to understand an individual’s level of risk. RRR can be used to create a plan of action that is tailored to the individual’s needs and can be used to monitor and evaluate progress.
References
World Health Organization. (2019). Mental health. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health