Research project

Suicide Prevention Skills Learning Pathway: Towards Conscious Competence

A continuous learning pathway in suicide prevention equips psychology students with essential knowledge and skills to recognise suicidality effectively and to initiate the conversation about it.

Duration: 2021 - 2025
Contact: Joanne Mouthaan
Funding: Grassroots & Grass shoots fund
: Landelijke Agenda Suïcidepreventie 2021-2025
Partners: 113 Zelfmoordpreventie, RINO-groep Utrecht

Scientific Background

Suicide prevention is a pressing issue in mental health care and features prominently on the agenda of policymakers and researchers. Yet, structural attention to this topic is still lacking in the curricula of medical and psychology programmes in the Netherlands. Research shows that targeted training of health professionals is effective in reducing suicides. Studies further demonstrate that discussing suicidal thoughts can actually bring clients a sense of relief and openness, leading to faster and better care.

The #ZEPPELIN study, carried out by the Institute of Psychology in collaboration with 113 Suicide Prevention and the RINO group, has provided insight into the knowledge, attitudes and skills of students in mental health care training programmes. The results show that students at all levels of education are positive about learning suicide prevention skills and are motivated to be trained in this area.

Through e-learning modules and classroom materials, a continuous learning pathway is being developed that prepares students—from bachelor’s to post-master level—to work with suicidality. In addition, we are exploring innovative initiatives, such as the development of an AI chatbot, to help students practise key skills like engaging in conversations about suicidality.

Research Objectives

Aims of the Suicide Prevention Skills Learning Pathway

Mapping knowledge, attitudes and competences: The #ZEPPELIN study charts the current state of suicide prevention skills among students.
Developing a continuous learning pathway: This project aims to structurally embed suicide prevention in psychology education, from bachelor’s to post-master level.
Evaluating innovative tools: Examining whether a blended learning pathway in suicide prevention skills improves psychology students’ knowledge and abilities; exploring whether an AI chatbot can support training in suicide prevention skills.
Impact on patient care: Investigating whether structural integration into education leads to better care for clients experiencing suicidality.
National roll-out: Implementing the learning pathway across all Dutch universities and post-master programmes.

Study Design and Methods

The project combines quantitative and qualitative research methods, including questionnaires, focus groups and interviews with students and professionals. The #ZEPPELIN study serves as a pilot to assess students’ baseline knowledge and attitudes.

Methods

E-learning modules: Developing and implementing blended learning materials focused on suicide prevention.
AI chatbot: Testing whether an AI chatbot can assess students’ conversation skills and whether it can support practising suicide prevention conversations.
Focus groups: Student evaluation of the e-learning modules and the AI chatbot.
Data analysis: Assessing the impact of the learning pathway on students’ knowledge, skills and attitudes.

Strategic Priorities

Translational: Applying academic knowledge in practical care.