Assessment of Depression and Suicidality (IN: Cognitive Therapy of Suicidal Behavior: a Manual for Treatment, by A Freeman & M A Reinecke)

Literature on several rating instruments that may be used to assess the severity of patients’ depression, hopelessness, & suicidality is reviewed. 4 modes of assessment are presented: self-report, interview of significant others, clinical interview, & objective testing. The relationship of psychiatric disorders & suicide is discussed because of the role that psychiatric diagnoses play in guiding initial interventions. The usefulness of biologic markers in assessment is also discussed.