loading page

Perceived Learning Needs of High School Teachers Regarding Suicide Prevention
  • Miranda Bevilacqua
Miranda Bevilacqua

Corresponding Author:[email protected]

Author Profile

Abstract

Suicide is the second leading cause of death among youth. Though school-aged youth are surrounded by teachers and professionals, little is known about what teachers want to know regarding suicide. The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the perceived learning needs of high school teachers in northwestern Ontario (NWO), Canada regarding suicide prevention using semistructured interviews. The results yielded educators prefer learning based on a mixture of styles that is relevant to their student needs; noting that time constraints are a barrier. Teachers are interested in knowing what to say; however, limited by the unknown legalities involved. Teachers expressed being comfortable talking about suicide and understood basic warning signs. The findings can assist mental health professionals and school board administration in supporting teachers regarding suicide prevention. Future research can include the creation of a suicide prevention program that is targeted exclusively for high school educators.