What might a score of "5" on the C-SSRS indicate?

A score of "5" on the Columbia – Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) indicates the presence of active suicidal behavior with intent. This means that the individual has not only contemplated suicide but may also have taken concrete steps toward acting on those thoughts, which signifies a higher level of risk.

In the context of the scale, scores are typically categorized in a way that reflects increasing severity of suicidal ideation and behavior. A score of "5" signals immediate concern and necessitates careful assessment and intervention. It highlights an urgent need for a comprehensive risk evaluation as part of safety planning and management strategies.

This score acts as a crucial threshold where professionals need to take definitive action to ensure the individual's safety, often involving crisis intervention or psychiatric consultation. Understanding this scoring system is essential for effective suicide risk assessment and appropriate response.