Silver et al (1971) found a significant correlation between depression and suicidal intent after non-fatal suicide attempts. A new abridged version of an objective instrument, the Depression Inventory (DI) has been developed which will allow self-administration or administration by less trained personnel without subjecting the patient to a lengthy psychiatric interview. The range of scores for the abridged DI are 0-4, none or minimal; 4-7, mild; 8-15, moderate; 16+ severe.