A Narrative Synthesis Of Literature On Suicide Prevention In Schools And Universities (2009-2024)

Suicidality is a public health issue that calls for action. As suicide rates become prominent among the youth, specifically the teenagers and young adults, studies on suicide prevention is warranted. Drawing on a database search strategy focused on 15 years of researches on suicide prevention in schools and universities, this narrative synthesis study integrates the findings published on the management of suicidality in the school setting. Guided by Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) Statement Guidelines, a novel acronym DEFINe was spawned to represent the themes generated from the included papers, which stands for: Detecting occurrences; Enhancing awareness; Fostering relationships; Improving help-seeking behavior; and Negotiating challenges. These findings support the need for crafting training programs for school administrators, teachers and staff in the management of students with suicidal ideation and other mental health concerns. Moreover, findings of this inquiry may lead to the development of projects intended to raise awareness on suicide as well as the promotion of mental health and sound psychological well-being..