Development of an Online Resource for People Bereaved by Suicide: A Mixed-Method User-Centered Study Protocol

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Public Health
• Information Systems

Background:

• Suicide bereavement is highly distressing, often leading to mental health issues.
• Individuals bereaved by suicide exhibit low help-seeking and perceived support.
• Existing face-to-face counseling is often inaccessible or unreliable for suicide survivors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and implement an innovative, adaptive online resource for suicide bereavement support.
• To address the specific needs and expectations of suicide survivors regarding online solutions.
• To enhance early access to mental health and postvention services for those bereaved by suicide.

Main Methods:

• The ESPOIR2S study employs a mixed-method, user-centered design following the Information System Research (ISR) Framework.
• Data collection involves qualitative and quantitative methods across three cycles: Relevance, Design, and Rigor.
• Active participation from suicide survivors, support associations, and postvention professionals ensures user-centeredness.

Main Results:

• The study will provide an in-depth understanding of suicide survivor needs for online resources.
• An adaptive online solution will be developed based on user-centered design principles.
• The research aims to improve accessibility to crucial support for suicide loss survivors.

Conclusions:

• The mixed-method, user-centered ESPOIR2S study effectively captures the needs of suicide survivors for online support.
• The developed adaptive online resource is expected to enhance help-seeking and support accessibility.
• Improved access to online resources is crucial for the well-being and recovery of suicide loss survivors.