Previous attempts are considered:

• A. The strongest of all suicide predictors
• B. A weak predictor
• C. Not predictive
• D. Only relevant if recent

Answer: (A)

A past suicide attempt is the strongest single predictor of future suicidal behavior. Research consistently shows that individuals with a history of attempts are at higher risk for both subsequent attempts and completed suicide than those without such a history, even when other factors are considered. This history captures accumulated vulnerability, access to means, and the person’s ability to act on urges, making it a particularly powerful signal in risk assessment. While recent or highly lethal attempts can elevate immediate risk, the overall history remains the most robust predictor. Other options underestimate or misstate the predictive value of prior attempts, which is why this choice best fits the evidence.