Educational Needs Assessment for Homeless Service Providers on Preventing Suicide

Abstract

This study assessed the educational needs, experience, and exposure of homeless service providers regarding suicide. Data were collected from clinical providers and paraprofessionals employed by homeless organizations. Using questionnaires, 51 participants were surveyed before and immediately after attending a brief standardized gatekeeper suicide prevention training program. Results indicate that 90% had past contact with suicidal individuals, and 95% of the providers are willing to participate in continuing education on suicide prevention. Given the high levels of exposure, suicide prevention training is essential to support the capacity of homeless service providers to address suicidal behaviors in the lives of their clients.

Keywords:

• suicide
• inservice training
• needs assessment
• homeless persons

This article not subject to US copyright law.

This work was supported with resources and the use of facilities at the St. Louis VA Medical Center. The authors thank Elaine St. Clemmons and the staff at the St. Patrick Center for their assistance in coordinating the training.

The views expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Department of Veterans Affairs.