Differences in the Effectiveness of Psychosocial Interventions for Suicidal Ideation and Behaviour in Women and Men: A Systematic Review of Randomised Controlled Trials

Abstract

The objective of this study was to explore outcomes of preventive programs and psychosocial treatments for suicidal ideation and behaviour in gender sub-groups in mixed gender studies and in studies limited to one gender. The method used was a systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) which included women or men only, or reported and/or examined outcomes of psychosocial interventions in mixed gender samples. A total of 27 (18%) of RCTs reported or examined differences in intervention outcomes. Of the mixed gender RCTs, 5 (33%) reported greater effectiveness for females than males. The review identified promising interventions in female-only samples. None of the trials reported greater effectiveness of the intervention in men. The majority of reviewed studies looking at treatment outcomes in gender sub-groups showed no differences between women and men or indicated that some psychosocial interventions are effective for women. There is a need for studies which look at gender effects and development of interventions more effective and appealing for men at risk of suicide.

Keywords:

• gender
• psychotherapy
• self-harm
• suicidal behaviour
• treatment

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Karolina Krysinska

Karolina Krysinska, Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Randwick, NSW, Australia.

Philip J. Batterham

Philip J. Batterham, Centre for Mental Health Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia.

Helen Christensen

Helen Christensen, Professor, Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Randwick, NSW, Australia.