Specifiers for Depressive Disorders in DSM-5 emphasize assessment of which risk factor?

Specifiers for Depressive Disorders in DSM-5 emphasize assessment of which risk factor?

• A. Substance use
• B. Suicidality
• C. Aggression
• D. Eating behaviors

Answer: (B)

Assessing suicide risk is central when evaluating depressive disorders. DSM-5 specifiers describe patterns of depressive symptoms—such as anxious distress, melancholic features, atypical features, or psychotic features—to guide treatment and prognosis. But across depressive episodes, suicidality stands out as the key risk factor to evaluate because of the high danger it poses. Clinicians should assess current suicidal thoughts, any plan or means, intent, past attempts, and protective factors to inform safety planning and level of care. While substance use, aggression, and eating behaviors can affect risk and treatment, they are not the primary risk factor highlighted in this context.

Assessing suicide risk is central when evaluating depressive disorders. DSM-5 specifiers describe patterns of depressive symptoms—such as anxious distress, melancholic features, atypical features, or psychotic features—to guide treatment and prognosis. But across depressive episodes, suicidality stands out as the key risk factor to evaluate because of the high danger it poses. Clinicians should assess current suicidal thoughts, any plan or means, intent, past attempts, and protective factors to inform safety planning and level of care. While substance use, aggression, and eating behaviors can affect risk and treatment, they are not the primary risk factor highlighted in this context.