All SOAP guidance
Mental health

Suicidal thoughts

Complete SOAP example

Example narrative

S

29-year-old non-binary person from HOME, lives with roommate, reports worsening depression and suicidal thoughts after relationship loss. Patient describes a plan but denies acting today. Substance use, means, supports and protective factors explored directly.

O

Primary survey intact. Patient found seated in living room, calm and cooperative, with no visible injury. Vitals and BGL obtained; speech, affect, thought process, orientation and behaviour objectively documented. Environment assessed for hazards.

A

Differential considerations: 1) acute suicidal crisis in depressive illness, 2) substance-related mood or judgment change, 3) medical contributor to behavioural change. High safety concern because of stated plan.

P

Trauma-informed communication and collaborative safety measures used. Patient observed per local policy; consultation and transport arranged for emergency mental-health assessment. Exact safety statements, supports and transfer documented.