Abstract
BackgroundProviding e-learning modules can be an effective strategy for enhancing gatekeepers’ knowledge, self-confidence and skills in adolescent suicide prevention. The aim of this study was to test the effectiveness of an online training program called Mental Health Online which consists of eight short e-learning modules, each capturing an important aspect of the process of recognition, guidance and referral of suicidal adolescents (12–20 years). The primary outcomes of this study are participant’s ratings on perceived knowledge, perceived self-confidence, and actual knowledge regarding adolescent suicidality.Methods/DesignA randomized controlled trial will be carried out among 154 gatekeepers. After completing the first assessment (pre-test), participants will be randomly assigned to either the experimental group or the waitlist control group. One week after completing the first assessment the experimental group will have access to the website Mental Health Online containing the eight e-learning modules and additional information on adolescent suicide prevention. Participants in both conditions will be assessed 4 weeks after completing the first assessment (post-test), and 12 weeks after completing the post-test (follow-up). At post-test, participants from the experimental group are asked to complete an evaluation questionnaire on the modules. The waitlist control group will have access to the modules and additional information on the website after completing the follow-up assessment.DiscussionGatekeepers can benefit from e-learning modules on adolescent suicide prevention. This approach allows them to learn about this sensitive subject at their own pace and from any given location, as long as they have access to the Internet. Given the flexible nature of the program, each participant can compose his/her own training creating an instant customized course with the required steps in adolescent suicide prevention.Trial registrationNetherlands Trial Register NTR3625
Highlights
Providing e-learning modules can be an effective strategy for enhancing gatekeepers’ knowledge, self-confidence and skills in adolescent suicide prevention
Gatekeepers can benefit from e-learning modules on adolescent suicide prevention
Aims and hypotheses The aim of this study is to develop and test the effectiveness of e-learning modules that educate gatekeepers in adolescent suicide prevention
Summary
This randomized controlled trial will test the effectiveness of e-learning modules on adolescent suicide prevention in promoting knowledge and self-confidence in gatekeepers dealing with this subject. Additional file 1: The eight e-learning modules of the Mental Health Online program. Competing interests The authors declare that they have no competing interests. Authors’ contributions RG created the website www.MentalHealthOnline.nl, the eight e-learning modules Voice-over) of the program Mental Health Online, and developed the three questionnaires of this study (perceived knowledge, perceived self-confidence and actual knowledge). AK and HK provided feedback for improvement of the e-learning modules and the three questionnaires. RG authored this protocol paper, AK and HK provided feedback for improvement of this manuscript. All authors read and approved the final manuscript
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