Foreseeable Changes Refresher (4-min)

What are foreseeable changes?   
Foreseeable changes are events, which, if they occurred, could reasonably be expected to quickly and significantly increase suicide risk. Assessments of suicide risk capture a single moment in time, but things can change quickly. Identifying foreseeable changes aids communication about current risk and facilitates planning to reduce vulnerability to sudden increases in suicide risk.   If foreseeable changes seem likely and coping skills and other resources and supports are few, the person might be at higher risk.  

How do you identify foreseeable changes?   
As part of a comprehensive risk assessment, we recommend identifying two foreseeable changes. Consider, especially, foreseeable changes that would make the person feel out of control, alone, worthless, humiliated, or trapped.  These phrases can be asked of the person and their family members or supports:  

• Let’s think together about a couple of events that could be really big “oh no” moments.  
• Something that might make you feel overwhelmed or suicidal.  
• What is a specific change or event that could make you feel out of control, alone, or embarrassed? 
• I know this might be something you don’t want to think about, but it’s important. 
• Could we get even more specific? 
• Could you help me get a movie in my head about what could happen?