Vernier

Suicide is a leading cause of death among teenagers, and preventing it has become a public health priority. This research aims to evaluate a brief primary suicide prevention intervention specifically for vulnerable adolescents, such as those in juvenile detention, at risk of dropping out of school, undergoing psychiatric treatment, belonging to sexual or gender minorities, affected by chronic conditions, or facing relational or family problems. The study uses a randomized controlled trial to test the interventions impact on suicide awareness, psychological distress, and suicidal thoughts. The intervention being studied is a 90-minute group psychoeducation session conducted by trained staff and a psychologist. It includes lectures, group discussions, and quizzes about suicide facts, myths, risk factors, warning signs, and ways to seek help. Participants are divided into groups of 5 to 15, averaging 10. The control group participates in an art-based workshop focused on slam poetry. After the study, control group participants receive informational flyers about suicide prevention. Participants aged 14 to 25 with good knowledge of French and meeting vulnerability criteria are involved. The study measures outcomes including a composite of suicide awareness one week and three months after the intervention, knowledge of suicide and local resources, suicidal thoughts, psychological distress, and access to suicide prevention. Assessments occur at baseline, one week, and three months post-baseline, with attention to participant retention and safety throughout the study period ending in 2028.