New technologies in suicide prevention

Abstract

IntroductionThe use of new technologies is beginning to be embraced by volunteers and professionals, from crisis lines, suicide prevention centers, mental health centers, researchers and politicians.ObjectivesNew technologies have entered the field of suicide prevention with high expectations for the future, despite a relatively slow start. Internet, smartphones, apps, social networks and self-help computer programs have a strong potential to achieve, sustain and help people at risk of suicide, their families, teachers, health professionals and for the survivors.AimsTo provide comprehensive overview on the role of new technologies in suicide prevention.MethodsGiven the relatively early and underdeveloped state of this area of inquiry, the author viewed his task as gathering and critically appraising the available research relevant to the topic, with the aim of formulating a hypothesis to be tested with further research.ResultsNew cheaper services will soon be available to effectively reach and assist the most vulnerable people and prevent suicides. The potential to help vulnerable people who do not use conventional mental health services and people in regions with inadequate psychiatric facilities represents an attractive target with favourable perspectives for suicide prevention Smartphone, apps, websites, avatar coach, and virtual suicidal subjects are important for both delivering help as well as to educate mental health professionals as in the case of role playing.ConclusionsShadows and lights are emerging through the use of new technologies. If more people can be reached there are however concern for improper use of social network and pro-suicide websites.Disclosure of interestThe author has not supplied his/her declaration of competing interest.