Characterizing facilitators of and barriers to suicide prevention program development and use: An exploratory study

Parental history of a suicide attempt increases children's risk for suicidal behavior. This study examined parental perceptions of and willingness to engage in suicide prevention programs for children whose parents have a history of attempting suicide. Semistructured qualitative interviews were conducted with nine parents who had a history of suicide attempt. Parents described three key elements they perceived to be necessary for this type of suicide prevention program: (a) parental involvement and education, (b) child education and counseling, and (c) timeliness of intervention. Parents also identified three barriers that could hinder program participation: (a) fear, stigma, and embarrassment; (b) finances, insurance, time, and transportation; and (c) lack of education. Incorporating these key components within suicide prevention programs as well as addressing identified barriers may increase familial participation and help reduce suicide risk in youth with a parental history of suicide attempt. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved).