Development, implementation and evaluation of a university module in suicide prevention for undergraduate health and social care students: Phase Two

Project Overview

This study is in response to Action 5.4.4 of the Connecting for Life strategy which recommends the incorporation of suicide prevention training as part of third-level curricula of the relevant health and social care professions.

The project follows a structured approach, consisting of four distinct phases – phase one (exploration), phase two (design), phase three (implementation) and phase four (evaluation).

Phase two of the project, which commenced in 2023, has utilised a multidisciplinary approach, drawing on insights from psychology, sociology, public health, and clinical practice, as well as input from students themselves.

The module has been designed to cover various aspects, including the epidemiology of suicide, risk and protective factors, assessment and safety planning techniques and intervention strategies. Moreover, the module emphasises the importance of self-care and wellbeing for students themselves.

Phase three (implementation) and phase four (evaluation) are due to commence in 2024.

Project Aims

The primary objective of this project is to equip health and social care students with the requisite knowledge, competencies, and empathy essential for adeptly managing and appropriately supporting individuals at risk of suicide.

Team Members Involved

Dr Eve Griffin, Dr Michelle O’Driscoll, Ms Kerrie Gallagher, Dr Clíodhna O’Brien, Dr Paul Corcoran

Recent Publications

Gallagher K, O’ Brien C, O’ Driscoll M, Ní Dhálaigh D, Corcoran P, Griffin E (2023). Suicide prevention curriculum development for health and social care students: Protocol for a scoping review. PloS ONE 18(12): e0285231