title: Sustaining the Effects of Gatekeeper Suicide Prevention Training.
abstract: Background: Gatekeeper training is a promising suicide prevention strategy that is growing in popularity. Although gatekeeper training programs have been found to improve trainee knowledge, self-efficacy, and perceived skills, researchers have found that the benefit of gatekeeper training may not last over time. Aims: The purpose of this study was to identify strategies for strengthening the long-term effects of suicide prevention gatekeeper training. Method: In-depth interviews and focus groups were conducted with gatekeepers (N = 44) and data were analyzed using a qualitative research approach. Results: The results of this study suggest that posttraining interventions may be more effective if they include the following seven themes: (a) social network - connecting with other gatekeepers; (b) continued learning - further education; (c) community outreach - building awareness; (d) accessibility - convenience; (e) reminders - ongoing communication; (f) program improvement -- enhancing previous training; and (g) certification - accreditation. Conclusion: Posttraining interventions that incorporate the themes from this study offer a promising direction in which to sustain the effects of gatekeeper suicide prevention training.
authors.affiliation: <location>RMC Research Corporation, Denver, CO, USA</location>
authors.forename: Annette
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Shtivelband
authors.affiliation: <location>Department of Psychology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA</location>
authors.forename: Patricia A
authors.initials: PA
authors.lastname: Aloise-Young
authors.affiliation: <location>Department of Psychology, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA</location>
authors.forename: Peter Y
authors.initials: PY
authors.lastname: Chen
keywords: gatekeeper training; suicide prevention; sustainability