Who should be screened for suicidality?

• A. Clients with risk factors only
• B. Everyone
• C. Adolescents only
• D. Seniors only

Answer: (B)

Screening everyone for suicidality is most effective because risk is not limited to people with obvious warning signs. Suicidal thoughts and behaviors can occur across ages and in people who seem otherwise well, so relying only on known risk factors or on specific age groups would miss many individuals in need of help. Universal screening in settings like primary care, schools, and mental health services allows for early identification, facilitates open conversation, reduces stigma, and leads to timely safety planning and referral. In short, checking everyone helps catch at-risk individuals who might otherwise be overlooked, rather than restricting screening to those with apparent risk factors or to particular age groups.