A mixed methods longitudinal case study exploring the impact of a community-based, brief psychological intervention for men experiencing suicidal crisis

TL;DR

This study examines a community-based psychological intervention for men in suicidal crisis, finding it acceptable and showing potential for both short- and long-term benefits.

Contribution

The study introduces a novel community-based intervention model and evaluates its acceptability and outcomes over time among men at risk of suicide.

Findings

Mean scores of entrapment decreased at 3- and 6-month follow-ups, while self-compassion increased at 3 months.

Case studies showed men found the intervention acceptable and used strategies like safety planning long-term.

The 'lay your cards on the table' component helped men articulate drivers of suicidality.

Abstract

Suicide is a leading cause of death among men globally, highlighting the need for acceptable and effective suicide prevention. This study explored perceptions of the short- and long-term outcomes and acceptability of the James’ Place Model (JPM), a therapeutic intervention delivered within a community-setting for men experiencing suicidal crisis. Also, factors influencing engagement of suicidal men in research were explored. A mixed methods longitudinal case study design was used. Quantitative data was collated through baseline, 3- and 6-month follow up questionnaires distributed to 28 men receiving the JPM. Measures of resilience, hope, generalised self-efficacy, self-compassion, loneliness, perceived social support, entrapment, and the 10-item clinical outcomes in routine evaluation measure were taken, and merged with routine service data. Two semi-structured interviews informed development of case studies exploring men’s perceived acceptabilityand short- and long-term effectiveness of the JPM, and factors relating to suicide research engagement. Descriptive analyses showed mean total scores of entrapment and self-compassion decreased and increased at 3-month follow-up respectively. Mean total scores of entrapment further decreased at 6-month follow-up, while mean scores of self-compassion remained similar to 3-month follow-up. Case studies highlight the perceived acceptability, and short- and long-term outcomes of the JPM suggesting use of the lay your cards on the table component help men to articulate the drivers of their suicidality. Men also discussed continued application of strategies developed during receipt of the JPM long-term including safety planning. The JPM is perceived as acceptable among men experiencing suicidal crisis and future work should seek to determine whether its short-term effectiveness is sustained long-term.

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