Which of the following is NOT a SAD PERSONS factor?

• A. Sleep disturbance
• B. Ethanol Abuse
• C. Age
• D. Sex

Answer: (A)

This question tests your knowledge of the SAD PERSONS suicide risk assessment tool, a quick checklist used to gauge risk and guide decisions about level of care. The factors in SAD PERSONS are Sex, Age, Depression, Previous attempts, Ethanol or drug use, Rational thinking loss, Social supports lacking, Organized plan, No spouse, and Sick. Sleep disturbance, while it can accompany depression, is not one of the ten items in this mnemonic. So it does not independently contribute to the risk score in this specific screening tool. The other items listed—Ethanol abuse, Age, and Sex—are part of the standard factors.