University Students' Perceptions and Experiences of a Suicide Prevention Gatekeeper Program (GUIAS_Program):...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Education
• Psychology

Background:

• University settings face significant public health challenges in suicide prevention.
• High prevalence of suicidal ideation and behaviors among students necessitates targeted interventions.
• The Universtiy Manager in Suicide Identification and Care (GUIAS) programme aims to equip students with early detection and management skills.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore student perceptions and experiences with the GUIAS suicide prevention training programme.
• To assess the effectiveness of the GUIAS programme in developing student competence in suicide prevention.
• To gather student feedback for programme improvement and wider implementation.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study employing ethnomethodological thematic analysis.
• Semi-structured interviews were self-recorded by undergraduate participants.
• Data saturation was achieved with 15 out of 21 interviewed students.

Main Results:

• Participants expressed satisfaction with the programme's design, content, and mixed-method approach (theory, simulations, reflection).
• Clinical simulations were highly valued for practical skill development.
• Students reported achievements and expectations, offering suggestions for enhancement.

Conclusions:

• The GUIAS programme effectively enhances student competence in suicide prevention.
• Participants recommended expanding content and optimizing dissemination for greater reach.
• Refining university-based suicide prevention initiatives is crucial for student preparedness and well-being.