Suicidal Ideation Attributes Scale (SIDAS)
The SIDAS is a 5-item self-report tool used to assess the severity and functional impact of suicidal thoughts. It was developed to support early identification and risk monitoring in community and clinical settings, particularly among individuals experiencing depression or distress. The Suicidal Ideation Attributes Scale (SIDAS) is an assessment tool designed to measure the severity of suicidal thoughts. It is intended for individuals experiencing suicidal ideation and is useful for mental health professionals to evaluate risk levels and plan interventions.
About the SIDAS
The Suicidal Ideation Attributes Scale (SIDAS) was developed by researchers in Australia to offer a brief yet sensitive measure of suicidal thinking. Unlike single-item suicide screeners, the SIDAS captures not just the presence but also the frequency, controllability, closeness to attempt, distress, and interference with daily life of suicidal thoughts over the past 30 days.
It is most appropriate for individuals with some insight and willingness to engage in self-reflection.
Psychometric Properties
The SIDAS demonstrates excellent internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.91) and convergent validity with other measures of suicidality and depression. It has been validated in large community and mental health samples.
- Total score range: 0–50
- Cutoff: A score ≥21 indicates high suicidal ideation severity
- Strong predictive validity for suicide planning and risk of attempt
Source: van Spijker et al., 2014
The Scale
The SIDAS includes 5 questions, each rated on a scale from 0 to 10. Items cover:
- Frequency of suicidal thoughts
- Controllability of thoughts
- Closeness to attempting suicide
- Distress associated with thoughts
- Impact on daily functioning
Example item: “In the past month, how often have you had thoughts about suicide?”
Score Range
- 0–20: Low ideation
- 21–50: High severity; further clinical assessment recommended
Any non-zero score should prompt clinician follow-up based on clinical context and safety protocols.
References
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