Development of an online suicide prevention program involving people with lived experience: ideas and challenges

Abstract

Plain English summary A team of persons with a lived experience of suicide and researchers jointly developed an online suicide prevention program. This online program addresses the taboo and stigmatized topic of suicidality from the perspective of people with lived experience. In our team are people who tried to take their own lives, thought about suicide, and people who lost a close person by suicide. For the program we wrote texts on suicidality and suicide on a scientific basis. In videos the team shared their experiences with suicide. The team told what helped them to continue living and gave them hope. Online program participants can read these texts and watch these videos. Participants can learn about suicidality and are encouraged to seek help if needed. During the development of the program, the researchers created a working atmosphere characterized by respect, empathy, transparency, and openness. Dealing with suicidality can be emotionally stressful. The team felt comfortable and safe. The team was proud of the developed online program. We describe strengths and weaknesses of the program development. We did not evaluate the involvement during the program development. If one wants to do this, the purpose should be explained to the team. The team should have a say in the design, such as what questions are asked. Our program gained enormously from involvement of people with a lived experience of suicide. Involvement is possible and necessary even with complex and sensitive topics such as suicidality. Antistigma work should involve those affected. Involvement is important to create a credible program.

Keywords

• Suicidality
• Suicide stigma
• e-mental health
• Lived experience
• Suicide prevention