Comprehensive school suicide prevention programs

Abstract

Abstract This article addresses responses to suicide by school systems and proposes a comprehensive suicide prevention program. It is suggested that programs must consist of prevention, intervention, and postvention. Prevention refers to program efforts that aim to prevent or inhibit the development of the problem. Intervention refers to reducing the level and duration of the problem at an early phase so that it does not develop more serious manifestations. Postvention refers to treatment or rehabilitative efforts applied after something has happened. It is argued that not only do school programs require such scope and content, but also that schools require a system-wide policy, resources, training of personnel, evaluation, and follow-up.