Implementation and Participant Responses to a Support Group for Adolescents with Suicidal Ideation
Abstract
Suicide remains a significant public health concern in Indonesia, particularly among adolescents. One contributing issue is difficulty establishing interpersonal relationships, which may lead to interpersonal distress, a lack of connectedness with others, and difficulty finding meaning in relationships. Adolescence is a developmental period in which social tasks become increasingly salient, providing numerous opportunities to build social relationships. Support from others may help adolescents increase their engagement and connectedness, thereby potentially reducing suicidal ideation. Therefore, this study examines the effectiveness of support groups in providing support for adolescents as a preventive approach to suicidal ideation. The method used in this study was a small-N design. Three participants with suicidal ideation and depression took part in the support group. Results indicate that the support group was effective in facilitating participants' expression of their thoughts and feelings, thereby fostering connection and interpersonal connectedness with others. Group-based interventions were associated with reductions in suicidal ideation and psychological distress, while also promoting social connectedness, belongingness, validation, hope, empowerment, coping, resilience, and help-seeking. Nevertheless, the implementation of support groups for adolescents with suicidal ideation requires structured procedures, risk screening, continuous safety monitoring regularly, crisis management protocols, and clear referral pathways.
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