What are the three components of a suicide risk assessment?

What are the three components of a suicide risk assessment?

• A. Protective Factors only
• B. Risk Factors and Warning Signs
• C. Protective Factors, Risk Factors, and Warning Signs
• D. Warning Signs and Protective Factors

Answer: (C)

Suicide risk assessment hinges on understanding three components: factors that increase risk, protective factors that reduce risk, and warning signs that signal imminent danger. Risk factors identify conditions that raise the likelihood of a suicide attempt—such as a prior attempt, mental illness, substance use, chronic pain or illness, recent losses, and social isolation. Protective factors are strengths and supports that help a person cope and stay safe—like strong relationships, access to mental health care, reasons for living, responsibilities to family or dependents, and effective coping skills. Warning signs are indicators that crisis is unfolding and action may be needed soon—such as statements of intent or hopelessness, planning or preparation for self-harm, giving away prized possessions, drastic mood changes, or withdrawal. A thorough assessment blends all three to gauge overall risk and guide safety planning and intervention. Relying on only risk factors or only warning signs misses how protective factors can offset risk and how current signs reflect immediate danger.

Suicide risk assessment hinges on understanding three components: factors that increase risk, protective factors that reduce risk, and warning signs that signal imminent danger. Risk factors identify conditions that raise the likelihood of a suicide attempt—such as a prior attempt, mental illness, substance use, chronic pain or illness, recent losses, and social isolation. Protective factors are strengths and supports that help a person cope and stay safe—like strong relationships, access to mental health care, reasons for living, responsibilities to family or dependents, and effective coping skills. Warning signs are indicators that crisis is unfolding and action may be needed soon—such as statements of intent or hopelessness, planning or preparation for self-harm, giving away prized possessions, drastic mood changes, or withdrawal. A thorough assessment blends all three to gauge overall risk and guide safety planning and intervention. Relying on only risk factors or only warning signs misses how protective factors can offset risk and how current signs reflect immediate danger.