Virtual SOS Signs of Suicide: Student Perspectives and Acceptability

Abstract

When the COVID-19 pandemic closed in-person schools in March 2020, SOS Signs of Suicide shifted to a virtual program. This paper describes an evaluation of the acceptability of the online program by middle and high school students (N = 1196). Students generally responded favorably to virtual SOS. Although some were unsure, of those with an opinion, 73.9% thought it was the same or better than in-person and 85.1% recommended virtual programming continue. At-risk students were more likely to prefer virtual SOS to in-person. Thematic analysis identified the following themes behind the continuation of virtual SOS: it helps people, it is more comfortable, better access to students, the medium of SOS does not matter, it is easier and more fun, and preferences depend on the individual person. Concerns about virtual SOS focused on a belief that in-person programming is better and that students are less likely to learn and engage virtually. The feedback clearly highlighted a diversity of opinions. Implications for schools are discussed, including opportunities to broaden the reach of SOS. Impact Statement The SOS Signs of Suicide program provides education on suicide that decreases self-reported suicide attempts and provides opportunities for help-seeking and identification of at-risk youth. SOS Signs of Suicide was adapted to an online format due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Although some students did were not sure what they thought about virtual SOS, of those with an opinion, 73.9% thought it was as good or better than in-person and 85.1% said it should continue to be offered. Benefits of virtual SOS included broader access to students, more comfortable learning environment, and an easier experience.