Suicide prevention training for Christian faith-based organizations using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy: a pilot controlled trial of The HOLLY Program

Abstract

This study is a pilot controlled trial of The HOLLY Program, an ACT-based suicide prevention gatekeeper training (GKT) program for Christian faith-based organizations (FBOs). Seventy-two participants took part in the study. Mixed ANOVAs with repeated measures examined changes on suicide responding outcomes and ACT processes using pre-intervention and one-month post-intervention data. Based on intention-to-treat analyses, significant increases in self-efficacy and suicide prevention behaviors were found. Increased knowledge and decreased stigma were data trends. No training effects emerged for the ACT processes; however, qualitative analyses showed that participants adaptively used ACT processes when engaging in a self-selected gatekeeper behavior. Further, correlational analyses revealed that ACT processes were associated with decreased stigma and completion of a self-selected gatekeeper behavior. Most participants (86%) awarded maximum ratings to the program's capacity to meet their expectations and needs, whilst 94% stated they would definitely recommend it to others. Although preliminary, these findings indicate the effectiveness of an ACT-based GKT program for Christian FBO members.