Suicide prevention in men

As a first step, this project aimed at identifying the needs of men with suicidal thoughts.

Therefore, a needs assessment (questionnaires, focus groups and interviews) was conducted among male adults who have had suicidal thoughts in the past three years and among health professionals. This provided a better understanding of gender-specific differences and needs, both among men themselves and among those who support them.

The results of this assessment formed the basis for the next steps in the project.

Kom Uit Je Kop is a campaign and sub-website of Zelfmoord1813.be, developed for men with suicidal thoughts and those around them. The website offers relatable stories, information and tools to support men, their loved ones and health professionals. 

We are working on a completely renewed website and a new awareness campaign, in co-creation with men who have experienced suicidal thoughts.

In addition, we are conducting a user survey to ensure that the renewed website is optimally aligned to the needs of men.

To better support health professionals in supporting men with suicidal thoughts, we are developing an e-learning module.

The module builds on existing e-learning programmes, such as SP-Reflex, and combines theoretical insights with interactive exercises and a psycho-educational framework. It offers practical tools for gender-responsive counselling, with a focus on:

• recognizing signs of suicidal thoughts in men
• the influence of gender norms on suicidality and help-seeking behaviour
• our own gender biases as health professionals
• and recommendations for conversation and support

The e-learning is currently being evaluated by healthcare providers from various settings.