Peer-support groups for suicide loss survivors: a systematic review

Abstract

ABSTRACT Despite the increase in research on suicide bereavement, the effectiveness of peer-support group programs in promoting the grief process and mental health of suicide loss survivors remains unclear. The goal of our study was to determine the effectiveness of peer-support group programs for suicide loss survivors. A systematic review (PROSPERO ID: CRD42022307591) of articles published from January 2000 to December 2021 was applied in the databases PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and SciELO. Articles written in English, Spanish, or Portuguese with full text availability were included in this review to perform a narrative synthesis of the results and a bias analysis. 12 qualitative and two quantitative studies, were selected. No evidence of efficacy in reducing suicidal behavior was found. Qualitative studies highlighted that these types of groups provide social support, enabling individuals to cope with grief and mitigating psychological discomfort. In conclusion, from evidence-based medicine, results on peer-support groups for suicide loss survivors has a low level of certainty and an insufficient grade of recommendation. Nevertheless, qualitative studies indicate the potential benefits of these programs. The prevailing use of qualitative methodologies accounts for a participatory and subjective epistemology, typical of community programs such as peer-support programs. Finally, both quantitative and qualitative perspectives are necessary for the integration and validation of mutual support groups for suicide survivors in public mental health services.