How is "Suicidal Behavior" defined in the C-SSRS?

In the Columbia – Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS), "Suicidal Behavior" is specifically defined as any actual attempts or self-injurious actions with intent to end one's life. This definition emphasizes the importance of intent in determining whether behavior qualifies as suicidal. It distinguishes acts that are aimed at ending life from thoughts or feelings of hopelessness, which may not involve any actions taken to end one's life.

This definition supports best practices in suicide risk assessment by focusing on behaviors that are indicative of a higher level of risk and necessitate immediate intervention. Recognizing the difference between thoughts of suicide and actions taken with suicidal intent is critical for evaluating risk levels accurately and effectively responding to individuals in crisis.

The other options involve considerations important to understanding overall mental health but do not encompass the specific criteria used to identify suicidal behavior according to the C-SSRS. For instance, expressing feelings of hopelessness does connect to suicidal thoughts but does not signify actual behavior, and intentionally harming oneself without suicidal intent does not fall under the definition of suicidal behavior since the intent to end one’s life is absent.