Suicide risk assessment

Question 1

What is SAD PERSONS?

Answer 1

S: Male sex

A: Age (<19 or >45 years)

D: Depression

P: Previous attempt

E: Excess alcohol or substance use

R: Rational thinking loss

S: Social supports lacking

O: Organized plan

N: No spouse

S: Sickness

Question 2

Describe the level of suicide risk associated with major mental illnesses

Answer 2

Bipolar Schizophrenia Depression

Question 3

Static vs dynamic factors in suicide risk assessment

Answer 3

• Static
  ▪sex
• Hx of impulsive behaviour/ D&A use
  ▪ Past history of attempts
  ▪ Past Hx of violence
  ▪ Family/friend history of suicide
• Dynamic
  ▪ Current ideation/plan/intent/access
  ▪ Psychotic symptoms, command AH
  ▪ Chronic stressors (e.g. chronic pain)
  ▪ Isolation/living alone

Question 4

How to assess for vulnerability?

Answer 4

VULNERABILIY
o Emotional/ physical/sexual/financial
o consider in children, manic patients,
intellectual impairment, history of
abuse/trauma

Question 5

How to assess pt engagement with MH services?

Answer 5

ENGAGEMENT
o History of non-compliance
o Lack of insight
o Alternative/cultural/family beliefs about
medication

Question 6

Describe the elements of a risk management plan for a suicidal patient

Answer 6

• assess risk of harm to self or others
• assess vulnerability
• assess engagement with MH facilities