Which instrument is a risk assessment tool abbreviated IS PATH WARM?

• A. Is Path Warm
• B. Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale
• C. Dyadic Adjustment Scale
• D. Adult Self Report

Answer: (A)

IS PATH WARM is a quick, mnemonic-based risk-screen for suicide. Each letter points to a warning sign to watch for: Ideation, Substance use, Purposelessness, Anxiety, Trapped, Hopelessness, Withdrawal, Anger, Recklessness, and Mood changes. When these signs are present, they suggest increased suicide risk and the need for a fuller assessment. The correct choice is the phrase that spells out this mnemonic, “Is Path Warm.” The other instruments mentioned serve different purposes: the Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale is a structured, formal assessment for suicidality; the Dyadic Adjustment Scale looks at relationship quality; the Adult Self Report gauges broad behavioral and emotional problems. So the mnemonic itself is the risk assessment tool abbreviated IS PATH WARM.