The Suicide Assessment Five-Step Evaluation and Triage (SAFE-T) is a structured framework that supports suicide risk assessment, clinical decision-making, intervention, planning, and follow-up.
The five steps of SAFE-T
SAFE-T includes five steps:
- Identify Risk Factors
- Identify Protective Factors
- Conduct Suicide Inquiry
- Determine Risk Level & Intervention
- Document & Follow-Up
When can SAFE-T be used?
SAFE-T may be used:
- At intake
- During ongoing suicide risk assessment
- When changes in a client's presentation indicate a need for reassessment
SAFE-T is a structured framework to support clinical decision-making and does not replace clinical judgment.
Additional resource
For additional guidance, see SAMHSA's SAFE-T: Suicide Assessment Five Step Evaluation and Triage