# A performing arts intervention to decrease suicide stigma on campus: A three time point assessment of “Every Brilliant Thing”

## TL;DR

A performing arts show called 'Every Brilliant Thing' was used to reduce suicide stigma on a university campus, with results showing a slight decrease in stigma after the performance.

## Contribution

This study demonstrates the potential of interactive performing arts to reduce suicide-related stigma in a university setting.

## Key findings

- A slight decrease in suicide stigma was observed immediately after the performance.
- The reduction in stigma was maintained at a 30-day follow-up for the overall scale.
- The study highlights the role of the arts in addressing sensitive mental health topics.

## Abstract

Suicidality is stigmatized, with discussions on the topic considered taboo by some. Fine arts may tackle subjects that people find hard to address. In 2024, a tour of “Every Brilliant Thing,” an interactive performance that introduces the topics of suicidality and suicide loss, was held on a university campus. During campuswide performances, attendees were recruited to complete anonymous self-report surveys that captured the Stigma of Suicide Scale Short Form at: Pre-Performance, Post-Performance, and 30-Day Follow-Up. Analysis of Variance with Bonferroni test for post hoc analysis examined differences in the stigma of suicide between the three timepoints. There were 196 responses at Pre-Performance, 151 responses at Post-Performance, and 104 responses at 30-Day Follow-Up. Most of the sample self-identified as female/woman (77.6%) and White (82.7%). A slight mean decrease was identified in scores for the Stigma of Suicide Scale Short Form: Overall and the Stigma of Suicide Scale Short Form: Stigma Subscale from pre-performance to post-performance. A slight decrease in the Stigma of Suicide Scale Short Form: Overall was also identified from the pre-performance timepoint to the 30-day follow-up timepoint. Considering the lifesaving importance of addressing the stigma of suicide and the innumerable persons in need of services, the fine arts can be an essential tool to reduce stigma.