Focus on KTE, is an initiative of CASP’s Knowledge Translation and Exchange Advisory Group. The aim of this series is to support the translation and exchange of emerging knowledge in suicide prevention and life promotion by highlighting the real-life implications of research and why it is important in our collective efforts.
December’s Focus of KTE highlights new and emerging research in suicide intervention and how these findings have informed the co-development of new programming to meet the unique needs of caregivers.
Suicide is a complex public health and social issue that profoundly affects individuals, families, and communities. While support exists for people experiencing thoughts of suicide, caregivers and loved ones often face gaps in services, leaving many without the guidance or resources they need.
We are excited to share a pre-recorded webinar featuring Dr. Sakina Rizvi, PhD, MACP, RP Chair, ASR Suicide and Depression Studies, University of Toronto at St. Michael’s Hospital Scientist; Psychotherapist, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, Unity Health Toronto; and Associate Professor of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, exploring new research and findings from the Family/Friends of Individuals at Risk of Suicide Training (FIRST) program—an emerging approach designed to better support caregivers.
Through this webinar, viewers can learn about the research processes undertaken to inform the FIRST program’s co-development, including key insights from People with Lived and Living Experience (PWLLE) of suicide and how these insights were integrated into program design.
The research is being done in two phases. Phase One sought to understand the barriers and service gaps experienced by family and friends in supporting their loved ones at risk of suicide, as well as preferences regarding a training program designed specifically to meet these needs (Rivni et al., May 2021).
Phase Two saw the Phase One findings used to define the curriculum, duration, and delivery format of the new FIRST Program for caregivers. The program has been co-developed with PWLLE, clinically reviewed, and is poised to be piloted for evaluation in January 2026.
It is important to note that the FIRST program is still in the development phase. This is new research and emerging programming that could potentially meet the needs of caregivers, but it requires rigorous evaluation for its effectiveness in meeting the identified training goals without causing harm.
This month’s Focus endeavours to demonstrate how researchers can effectively consult with PWLLE and caregivers to inform and co-develop new programming to meet a unique need in suicide prevention. The work is also an important reminder of the significant role friends and family play in preventing suicide and promoting life and living in our communities.