Introduction: Suicidal crisis syndrome (SCS) is an evidence-based pre-suicidal cognitive and emotional state that predicts short-term suicide risk. The aim of the present study is to examine the diagnostic model presented in the field of early suicide diagnosis.

Method: This study was conducted as a narrative review, aiming to investigate the conceptual structure, theoretical foundations, and diagnostic utility of SCS in predicting imminent suicide. The research method was library-based, and data were collected and analyzed from reputable international and national databases covering the period from 2010 to 2025.

Results: In the field of suicide prevention, Suicide Crisis Syndrome has been introduced as a severe and transient emotional state that serves as a reliable indicator of short-term suicide risk. This syndrome, as a clinical construct, encompasses a set of psychological symptoms that typically emerge shortly before suicidal behavior. According to current evidence, SCS consists of five core components: entrapment with no perceived escape, affective disturbance, cognitive dyscontrol, hyperarousal (psychological or physiological), and social withdrawal or disconnection. Together, these elements provide a framework for identifying individuals at imminent risk before a suicidal act occurs.

Conclusion: The findings from this literature review indicate that SCS can serve as a valuable adjunctive tool in clinical assessments for identifying individuals at immediate risk. However, its clinical application requires localization of assessment instruments and further empirical studies within various cultural contexts, including that of Iran.