Jerome Motto

American psychiatrist and researcher

Jerome Motto was an American psychiatrist renowned for his pioneering work in the field of suicide prevention. His innovative approach to mental health care and his dedication to understanding the psychological factors contributing to suicide have left a lasting impact on the field.

Early Life and Education

Jerome Motto was born in the United States. He pursued his medical education with a focus on psychiatry, eventually earning his medical degree. His early interest in mental health and human behavior led him to specialize in psychiatry, where he sought to make significant contributions to understanding and preventing mental illness.

Career

Motto's career was marked by his commitment to improving mental health care and suicide prevention. He worked in various capacities as a psychiatrist, researcher, and educator. His work was characterized by a compassionate approach to patient care and a dedication to understanding the underlying causes of mental health issues.

Suicide Prevention Research

Jerome Motto is best known for his groundbreaking research in suicide prevention. He developed the "caring letters" approach, which involved sending periodic letters to individuals who had been discharged from psychiatric care. This simple yet effective intervention was designed to provide ongoing support and remind patients that they were not alone.

A sample of a caring letter used in Jerome Motto's research

The caring letters intervention was based on the idea that maintaining a connection with patients after discharge could reduce feelings of isolation and hopelessness, which are significant risk factors for suicide. Motto's research demonstrated that this approach significantly reduced suicide rates among the participants, highlighting the importance of continued support and communication in mental health care.

Academic Contributions

In addition to his research, Motto was a respected educator who taught medical students and professionals about the importance of empathy and communication in psychiatric care. He emphasized the need for a holistic approach to mental health, considering both the psychological and social factors that contribute to mental illness.

Legacy

Jerome Motto's work has had a profound impact on the field of psychiatry and suicide prevention. His caring letters intervention is still recognized as a valuable tool in mental health care, and his research has inspired further studies into the importance of communication and support in preventing suicide.

A handwritten caring letter, part of Jerome Motto's intervention strategy

Motto's legacy continues to influence mental health professionals and researchers, encouraging them to explore innovative approaches to patient care and suicide prevention.

Related Pages

• Suicide prevention
• Psychiatry
• Mental health
• Psychotherapy