Engaging stakeholders to develop a suicide prevention learning module for Louisiana firearm training courses

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Suicide Prevention
• Firearm Safety

Background:

• Firearm suicide is a critical public health issue in the U.S. affecting both general and veteran populations.
• Lethal means safety is a key strategy, but resources often lack input from target audiences.
• Prior research highlights effective methods for message dissemination and adoption.

Purpose of the Study:

• To adapt and evaluate a suicide prevention learning module for firearm instructors and owners in Louisiana.
• To incorporate stakeholder feedback to enhance the module's relevance and acceptability.
• To assess the module's potential for broader implementation in firearm suicide prevention efforts.

Main Methods:

• Focus groups with Louisiana firearm owners and instructors were conducted to gather feedback on an existing learning module.
• The module, including a video and presentation, was adapted based on initial feedback.
• A second round of focus groups evaluated the adapted module, followed by team-based rapid qualitative analysis.

Main Results:

• Participants emphasized the importance of relatable messengers and aligning safety messages with firearm owner values.
• The adapted module successfully integrated these themes, leading to high acceptability.
• A consistent theme was openness to further education and training on firearm suicide prevention.

Conclusions:

• Stakeholder engagement successfully produced a suicide prevention learning module that is perceived as representative, accurate, and acceptable by Louisiana firearm owners and instructors.
• The findings support a public health approach to suicide prevention through community-informed resource development.
• This adaptable model can guide firearm suicide prevention initiatives in other regions.