Which item is NOT included in the SAD PERSONS suicide risk assessment?

Which item is NOT included in the SAD PERSONS suicide risk assessment?

• A. Sex
• B. Age
• C. Depression
• D. Employment status

Answer: (D)

The main idea is knowing which factors the SAD PERSONS suicide risk assessment includes. SAD PERSONS uses ten factors: Sex, Age, Depression, Prior attempt, Ethanol or drug use, Rational thinking loss, Social supports lacking, Organized plan, No spouse, and Sick (illness). Employment status is not part of this mnemonic, so it does not add to the risk score. That’s why employment status is the correct answer here. The other items listed (Sex, Age, Depression) are included in the assessment and can contribute to higher risk when present.

The main idea is knowing which factors the SAD PERSONS suicide risk assessment includes. SAD PERSONS uses ten factors: Sex, Age, Depression, Prior attempt, Ethanol or drug use, Rational thinking loss, Social supports lacking, Organized plan, No spouse, and Sick (illness). Employment status is not part of this mnemonic, so it does not add to the risk score. That’s why employment status is the correct answer here. The other items listed (Sex, Age, Depression) are included in the assessment and can contribute to higher risk when present.