[Is it possible to run suicide prevention interventions within the school setting?].
Suicide represent the second cause of death in Switzerland and, between 15 and 20 years of age, 8% of girls and 4% of boys have attempted suicide at least once in their life. "Universal" primary prevention in schools is usually run through courses dealing with the issue of suicide and which are systematically provided to all pupils. There is no evidence that they have any positive effect and even they may be in some instances harmful. The training of professionals working in the school setting to better identify and refer adolescents facing risky situation is probably effective. Another promising approach is the one which aims at improving the school climate in increasing social connectedness and the pupils' life skills. Finally, the school which faces a suicide should set up debriefing activities, thus deterring vulnerable pupils to engage in violent acting as a result of a contamination process.
Michaud
P A
PA
Unité multidisciplinaire de santé des adolescents CHUV, 1011 Lausanne. Pierre-Andre.Michaud@chuv.ch
Laget
J
J
D000293:Adolescent; D006801:Humans; D012572:School Health Services / Q000592:standards; D013557:Switzerland; D000092864:Suicide Prevention