What is the primary purpose of recognizing warning signs of suicide among health professionals?

• A. To prevent harm and seek help early
• B. To assign blame for poor outcomes
• C. To increase administrative tasks
• D. To reduce patient contact

Answer: (A)

Recognizing warning signs of suicide among health professionals is about safety and timely intervention. When signs such as persistent hopelessness, drastic mood changes, withdrawal, or changes in behavior are noticed, the goal is to intervene early to prevent self-harm and connect the person with help. Early action enables risk assessment, safety planning, and referral to mental health resources, protecting the individual and maintaining patient safety by ensuring support before a crisis worsens. The other options don’t promote safety or care—blame undermines trust, additional administrative tasks don’t address the risk, and reducing patient contact could miss opportunities to provide support. The focus is on a proactive, supportive response that facilitates access to help.