Suicide Screening

Considering that adolescent suicide is the 3rd leading cause of death in the U.S. among 15-24 year olds, (Whiston, 2013), school counselors are confronted with the need to screen students for suicide ideation.  To assess suicide potential in adolescents, the American Association of Suicidology offers an easy-to-remember mnemonic: IS PATH WARM - Ideation, Substance Abuse, Purposelessness, Anxiety, Trapped, Hopelessness, Withdrawal, Anger, Recklessness, and Mood Changes, (American Association of Suicidology, n.d.).  This list contains risk factors and warning signs that counselors can use to assess a student who may be expressing suicide potential.  The model includes a list of expanded warning signs as well as resources for students.  In 2001, 71% of surveyed counselors reported having worked with individuals who attempted suicide, (Whiston, 2013) so this assessment tool is incredibly vital for all counselors to have in their tool belt.

American Association of Suicidology IS PATH WARM: http://www.suicidology.org/resources/warning-signs

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