Dos and Don'ts in Designing School-Based Awareness Programs for Suicide Prevention

Abstract

<b></b> <i>Background:</i> Despite the promising evidence for the effectiveness of school-based awareness programs in decreasing the rates of suicidal thoughts and suicide attempts in young people, no guidelines on the targets and methods of safe and effective awareness programs exist. <i>Aims:</i> This study intends to distill recommendations for school-based suicide awareness and prevention programs from experts. <i>Method:</i> A three-stage Delphi survey was administered to an expert panel between November 2018 and March 2019. A total of 214 items obtained from open-ended questions and the literature were rated in two rounds. Consensus and stability were used as assessment criteria. <i>Results:</i> The panel consisted of 19 participants in the first and 13 in the third stage. Recommended targets included the reduction of suicide attempts, the enhancement of help-seeking and peer support, as well as the promotion of mental health literacy and life skills. Program evaluation, facilitating access to healthcare, and long-term action plans across multiple levels were among the best strategies for the prevention of adverse effects. <i>Limitations:</i> The study is based on opinions of a rather small number of experts. <i>Conclusion:</i> The promotion of help-seeking and peer support as well as facilitating access to mental health-care utilities appear pivotal for the success of school-based awareness programs.