The Adapted-SAD PERSONS: a Suicide Assessment Scale Designed for use With Children

The Adapted-SAD PERSONS Scale which is designed to assess immediate suciide risk with children & youth is described. Child & youth-specific risk factors the scale addresses are: sex, age, depression or affective disorder, previous attempt, substance abuse, rational thinking loss, lack of social support, organized plan, family problems & familial suicide, & school problems. The scoring procedures for this scale & its suggested intervention guidelines are outlined. (33 refs.)