Advocating for Life: A Hospital's Guide to Suicide Prevention.

Abstract

Introduction: With a global increase in adolescent suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STBs), this study addresses the need for enhanced advocacy initiatives within psychiatric inpatient settings.

Methods: This study, conducted in the Midwest region of the United States, sampled a diverse group of healthcare professionals from psychiatric hospitals, including nurses, nurse practitioners, therapists, techs, and psychologists. Specifically, this study used reflexive thematic analysis to gather insights into the existing state of advocacy efforts, focusing on their alignment with the needs of adolescent patients and barriers to effective implementation.

Results: Preliminary findings revealed a significant gap in hospital-wide advocacy programs tailored to the needs of adolescents facing STBs. Participants stressed the need for more personalized, dynamic advocacy strategies that go beyond traditional models, suggesting a move toward integrated, patient-driven approaches.

Conclusion: This study details several limitations with current psychiatric inpatient care practices, stressing the need for a paradigm shift toward more effective advocacy and suicide prevention strategies. Our results advocate for an approach that actively involves patients in their care journey.