Suicide prevention in educational settings: a review.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Psychology
• Education

Background:

• Youth suicide rates are a significant public health concern.
• Educational settings are recognized as suitable environments for suicide prevention initiatives.
• Existing evidence on suicide prevention interventions in educational settings requires synthesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and synthesize evidence on suicide prevention interventions in educational settings.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of various intervention types targeting young people.
• To identify gaps in current research.

Main Methods:

• The review synthesized findings from 21 studies, including randomized controlled trials and non-randomized trials.
• Studies were conducted in school and university settings, focusing on suicide-related outcomes in young people.
• Interventions included both universal and indicated approaches.

Main Results:

• Overall, school-based suicide prevention interventions demonstrated positive effects on suicide-related behaviors.
• Both universal and indicated interventions yielded positive results, with no reported iatrogenic effects.
• University-based studies also showed positive effects, though fewer studies were available.

Conclusions:

• School-based suicide prevention programs can positively impact youth suicide-related behaviors without causing harm.
• There is variability in study quality, and a disparity exists in the number of studies conducted in schools versus universities.
• Future research should address the identified gaps, particularly in higher education settings.