Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS)

One instrument available to screen for suicide risk is the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS). The C-SSRS is a short questionnaire that can be administered quickly in the field by responders with no formal mental health training. It is relevant in a wide range of settings and for individuals of all ages. 

You can learn how to administer the C-SSRS through the following training webinar: https://cssrs.columbia.edu/training/training-options/

Practice modules are included. Completing the entire training module takes 1-2 hours.

The Tennessee Suicide Prevention Network (TSPN) provides pocket-sized versions of the C-SSRS that can be added to one’s badge, kept in one’s wallet, etc. The resource summarizes the question-and-response protocol recommended by C-SSRS, including when to seek outside help. Completion of the training webinar is not necessary for using the badges, but recommended to understand the finer points of the protocol.

Anyone interested in obtaining C-SSRS badges can contact their Regional Director or the TSPN central office.

A promotional flyer with details about C-SSRS badges and training is available for free download, suitable for community distribution and posting.