The Impact of a Psychoeducational Workshop on Awareness and Retention of Suicide Prevention Information

Abstract

Adolescent suicide is a significant public health issue in the United States. The development of youth suicide prevention education curriculum and school faculty training programs in American schools may reduce adolescent suicide rates. Legislation in 37 states, not including New York, and lawsuits against many American public school districts indicate a national trend towards mandating curriculum and training. This study examined the impact of a psychoeducational workshop in a high school setting on student awareness of essential information associated with suicide prevention. The instrument used for research was a ten item pre-test and post-test created by the principal investigator with evidence of validity and reliability. Results indicate the workshop improved student awareness and retention of suicide prevention information to a statistically significant level. Implications of research include a recommendation of implementation of a similar psychoeducational workshop within New York High School Health Education classes.