From research to practice: an evidence-based and participatory approach to suicide prevention.

Abstract

Introduction: Suicide is a major public health concern, and its prevention is complex, challenging multiple stakeholders from research, policy, and practice to work together in order to develop multi-level interventions. Since 2006, an extensive Suicide Prevention Strategy has been implemented in Flanders, Belgium, aiming to decrease the suicide rates and support everyone affected by it. Using evidence-based methods and involving multiple stakeholders are the key strengths of this strategy.
 Method: The Suicide Prevention Strategy in Flanders is developed with the support of the Flemish government and in cooperation with various stakeholders, including researchers, policymakers, healthcare workers, and people with lived experience. Key criteria for the development and implementation processes of new interventions in the Strategy are: tailored to the target group’s needs, evidence-based, innovative, monitored and evaluated in terms of their outreach, usability and effectiveness. 
 Results: The Strategy includes various interventions. In this presentation, the development process of two innovative evidence-based interventions will be presented, as well as their impact on clinical practice. 
 1)The development and implementation of clinical guidelines and an e-learning course for health professionals on the detection and treatment of suicidal behaviour;
 2)The development and implementation of online tools, such as an online self-help course and smartphone application for suicidal individuals.
 Conclusion: In order to build solid suicide prevention strategies and interventions, cooperation between various stakeholders is essential. Implementing evidence-based and innovative tools in clinical practice, tailored to the needs of clinicians and people with lived experience, is a key strategy which can enhance the quality of care in suicide prevention.