When depression is suspected, the physician should always ask about?

When depression is suspected, the physician should always ask about?

• A. Homicidal thoughts
• B. Substance use
• C. Self-harm in past year
• D. Suicide ideation

Answer: (D)

Directly asking about suicide ideation is essential when depression is suspected because it directly informs safety and urgent management. Many patients may not volunteer thoughts of dying or harming themselves, so a straightforward question about whether they have such thoughts, any plans, or intent is the most reliable way to detect imminent risk. This prompts immediate risk assessment and intervention if present. While evaluating for other risk factors like homicidal thoughts, substance use, or a history of self-harm is important for a complete picture, current suicide ideation is the best universal screening focus because it most directly signals danger to the patient and requires urgent action.

Directly asking about suicide ideation is essential when depression is suspected because it directly informs safety and urgent management. Many patients may not volunteer thoughts of dying or harming themselves, so a straightforward question about whether they have such thoughts, any plans, or intent is the most reliable way to detect imminent risk. This prompts immediate risk assessment and intervention if present. While evaluating for other risk factors like homicidal thoughts, substance use, or a history of self-harm is important for a complete picture, current suicide ideation is the best universal screening focus because it most directly signals danger to the patient and requires urgent action.