Which of the following is a factor in the SAD PERSONS assessment?

• A. Education level
• B. Marital status
• C. Ethanol Abuse
• D. Housing stability

Answer: (C)

The key idea here is that the SAD PERSONS assessment uses a quick set of factors to gauge suicide risk, including the impact of substance use. Ethanol or drug use is one of those indicators, because alcohol and drugs can worsen mood symptoms, lower inhibitions, and lead to circumstances that increase danger, such as accidents, self-harm planning, or rapid escalation of risk. So ethanol abuse is the factor that fits the SAD PERSONS framework.

Education level isn’t part of the standard checklist, and marital status isn’t used as a standalone item (the relevant concept is lack of social supports, which can include not having a spouse). Housing stability also isn’t an explicit item on the list. The presence of substance use, along with other factors like depression, prior attempts, and lack of social support, is what triggers closer assessment and potential safety measures.