The US Air Force Suicide Prevention Program: Implications for Public Health Policy

Abstract

The AFSPP effectively prevented suicides in the US Air Force. The long-term effectiveness of this program depends upon extensive implementation and effective monitoring of implementation. Suicides can be reduced through a multilayered, overlapping approach that encompasses key prevention domains and tracks implementation of program activities.

Mates in Construction Suicide Prevention Program: A Five Year Review

“…The work was criticised because of its multi-component nature, and the need for us to know more precisely which elements of a program prevent suicide [47]. However, subsequent reports continue to demonstrate effectiveness of the USAF program in preventing suicide and other mental health problems [5,48]. While and colleagues [6] have reported a ten year follow-up study in the United Kingdom, where suicide rates in those with mental illness were significantly reduced in clinical services adopting nine clear recommendations, compared to services that did not.…”

“…The WHO suggests this may relate to improved global health but, in acknowledging emerging evidence for national strategies [2,3], they recommend a range of specific program strategies from which countries may choose. For the first time, they also acknowledge multicomponent strategies as leading to positive outcomes [4][5][6].…”

Feasibility of a Comprehensive Wellness and Suicide Prevention Program: A Decade of Caring for Physicians in Training and Practice

“…Actual outcomes such as reductions in suicide risk require a larger sample in order to detect changes due to the low base rate of suicide. 7 Engagement in treatment, however, is an important proxy variable for reducing suicide risk. 9 Future research is needed to identify which physicians in training and practice engage in a wellness program and as a result demonstrate enhanced personal and professional efficacy.…”

“…4 Of greatest concern, suicide rates for physicians are 2 times higher than those for the general population, 5 and rates appear unchanged since 2002, when an American Medical Association task force called for more preventive and interventional efforts to assist distressed physicians. 6 Comprehensive mental health promotion and intervention models that reduce distress and suicide risk in military, 7 university, 8 and community settings 9 are less available to medical trainees and faculty physicians. Most intervention studies involving physicians 10 describe educational interventions that focus on reducing stress and burnout symptoms 11 rather than treating depression or suicidal ideation.…”

Ejército profesional, misiones y suicidio

“…Sudak et al sugiere que la existencia de un formulario diseñado por expertos en este tema podría proporcionar ayuda al profesional sanitario y reducir morbilidad y mortalidad 8 . También podemos señalar que existen programas de prevención de suicidio, cuyo éxito depende de su implementación y monitorización continúa adecuada 9 .…”