There are several choices for validated screening tools.
Below are some that are commonly used. 
The Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale Screener
- The screener includes 6 items and is frequently used to screen for suicide risk.
Access the Screener >>
- The site includes information about training and numerous versions of the screener and the longer Columbia Suicide Severity Scale for use in varied settings.
Learn More >>
Item 9 of the PHQ-9 depression scale
- The PHQ-9 is often used in primary care or other healthcare settings to assess depression severity.
- Item 9 can be considered a suicide screener. However, the wording is very broad, and a person may agree that they have “thoughts that they would be better off dead” without having any thoughts about actively hurting themselves. A positive response to item 9 may be followed with either the CSSRS-Screener or the ASQ in order to have a better immediate sense of the severity of the suicide risk.
Access the PHQ-9 >>
Ask Suicide-Screening Questions (ASQ) Toolkit
- This page provides links to the ASQ tool, which is a 4-item suicide screener for people aged 8 and older. It can be used in an emergency department, inpatient medical/surgical units, and primary care.
Access the Tool >>
If a person screens positive for suicide risk, they should go on to have a comprehensive risk assessment.
For more information about suicide screening and assessment, please visit:
If you are a clinician or community member who needs help to decide what to do about a person who may be at risk for suicide, please call The Providence Center 24-hour Behavioral Health Emergency Line: (401)-274-7111.
