Table 3 Essential features in the two-dimensional risk stratification model [30]

High

• SI with intent to die by suicide

• Inability to maintain safety independent of external support/help

• Chronic SI, which may become acutely suicidal upon unpredictable situations (e.g., job or relationship loss)

• Limited coping skills and limited ability to identify reasons for living

• Increase or change in baseline mood, behavior and talk about suicide or dying

Intermediate

• SI to die by suicide

• Ability to maintain safety, independent of external support/help

• Similar to high chronic risk but have a relatively balanced protective factors, coping skills, reasons for living and psychosocial stability

Low

• No current suicidal intent, and

• No specific and current suicidal plan, and

• No preparatory behaviors, and

• Collective high confidence (including patient, care provider, family member) in the ability of the patient to independently maintain safety

• Little or no mental health, or

• Significant mental illness but have abundance of coping strengths and resources

• Have history of managing stressors without resorting to SI

• Absence of history of self-directed violence; chronic SI; tendency toward highly impulsive, risky behavior; severe, persistent mental illness; marginal psychosocial functioning.