When screening a client for possible risk of suicide, which of the following is the best question to ask?

• A. Do you think things will get better soon?
• B. Have you been sleeping well recently?
• C. Have you had any thoughts about ending your life?
• D. Are you feeling sad or anxious lately?

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the purpose of the screening question: it should directly assess the client's risk of suicide by addressing suicidal thoughts explicitly.
2. Evaluate each option to see which one directly asks about suicidal ideation, as this is the most reliable indicator of suicide risk.
3. Recognize that asking 'Do you think things will get better soon?' is indirect and may not reveal suicidal thoughts clearly.
4. Note that 'Have you been sleeping well recently?' and 'Are you feeling sad or anxious lately?' assess general well-being but do not specifically address suicide risk.
5. Identify that 'Have you had any thoughts about ending your life?' is the best question because it directly and clearly screens for suicidal ideation, which is critical for assessing risk.