What is the role of "collateral information" in the C-SSRS?

Collateral information plays a crucial role in the Columbia – Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) as it provides additional context and verification to the individual's self-reported data during the suicide risk assessment process. When assessing a person's suicidal ideation and behavior, relying solely on their responses may not provide a complete picture of their situation. Collateral information, which can come from family members, friends, or other professionals involved in the individual's care, can help corroborate the individual's reports and reveal insights that they might not express during the assessment.

For instance, collateral information can highlight changes in the individual’s behavior, significant stressors, or other factors that may contribute to their suicide risk. It also reinforces the validity of the assessment findings and helps in making more informed decisions about treatment and intervention. This approach recognizes that suicide risk is influenced by a complex interplay of internal and external factors and that gathering information from various sources enriches the understanding of the individual’s situation.