SAD PERSONS Scale (Suicide Assessment)
Neurology & Psychiatry specialty tool
Bedside Tool Interface Configuration
An evidence-supported clinical mnemonic for evaluating immediate suicide risk factors.
Algorithm Checklist Parameters:
- Sex biological (Male or high suicide completion demographics) (+1)
- Age <19 years or >45 years (+1)
- Depression active or current clinical diagnosis (+1)
- Previous suicide attempts or self-harm gestures (+1)
- Ethanol / alcohol abuse, or active illicit substance use (+1)
- Rational thinking loss (functional psychosis, hallucinations) (+1)
- Social support lacking / isolated living (+1)
- Organized suicide plan or active preparation (+1)
- No spouse (divorced, widowed, or single) (+1)
- Chronic sickness / debilitating medical illness (+1)
Primary Clinical Application:
Bedside emergency psychiatric screening to assist with triage and voluntary vs involuntary hospitalization decisions.