Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale

Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale
Purpose	Assess suicide risk

The Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) is a psychological assessment tool used to evaluate the severity and intensity of suicidal ideation and behavior. Developed by researchers at Columbia University, including Dr. Kelly Posner, the C-SSRS is designed to support suicide prevention efforts by providing a clear and consistent approach to assessing suicide risk.

Development and History

The C-SSRS was developed in the mid-2000s as part of an initiative to create more effective tools for suicide risk assessment. The scale was designed to improve upon previous methods by incorporating a detailed assessment of both suicidal ideation and suicide-related behaviors. It has been endorsed by various organizations, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), for its effectiveness and reliability in clinical and research settings.

Structure and Components

The C-SSRS is structured around a series of scored questions that assess the presence and severity of suicidal ideation, plans, and behaviors. The scale is divided into several key components:

• Suicidal Ideation: Questions in this section determine the extent of an individual's thoughts about wanting to die or kill themselves.
• Intensity of Ideation: This component assesses the severity of the ideation based on various factors such as frequency, duration, controllability, and deterrents.
• Suicidal Behavior: This part evaluates any past attempts, aborted attempts, or preparations for suicide.
• Lethality of Attempts: Questions here assess the potential lethality and intent of any suicide attempts.

Usage

The C-SSRS can be administered by trained clinicians, researchers, and in some cases, trained lay interviewers. It is used in a variety of settings, including psychiatric hospitals, emergency departments, primary care settings, schools, and in military assessments. The scale can be administered through face-to-face interviews or via paper-and-pencil questionnaires.

Impact and Effectiveness

Research has shown that the C-SSRS is a reliable and valid tool for assessing suicide risk. Its implementation has been associated with improved identification of individuals at risk for suicide and has facilitated timely intervention. The scale's comprehensive nature allows for detailed tracking of suicidal ideation and behaviors over time, which is crucial for effective monitoring and treatment planning.

See Also

• Suicide prevention
• Mental health evaluation
• Psychiatric assessment