Sexual and Gender Minorities' Readiness and Interest in Supporting Peers Experiencing Suicide-Related Behaviors

Abstract

Abstract. Background: Gatekeeper training is a widely recommended suicide prevention intervention that encourages the development of knowledge and the identification and support of those at risk of suicide. Yet, this strategy has not been implemented among sexual and gender minorities (SGM), a group at high risk of suicide. Aim: The aim of this study was to describe the readiness and interest of SGM in supporting peers experiencing suicide-related behaviors. Method: We analyzed data from an online cross-sectional survey of Canadian SGM ( n = 2778). Results: In total, 90% of participants had ≥1 SGM peer with depression, and 73% had ≥1 SGM peer who had previously attempted suicide; 74% said they knew what to do to support a peer experiencing suicide risk, and 77% indicated they knew where to refer them. Furthermore, 94% were interested in learning how to recognize signs of suicidality, while 95% were interested in learning skills to support a peer struggling with suicidality and 81% of those indicated a preference to learn these skills online. Limitations: The study used a nonprobability sample and cross-sectional design. Conclusion: SGM are largely interested in learning suicide prevention skills and, as such, more resources are needed to implement and scale up evidence-based approaches for gatekeeper training among SGM.