Standardized Suicide Prevention Program for Gatekeeper Intervention of North Korean Defectors in South Korea
- Author:
Yeon Jung LEE
1
;
Hyeon-Ah LEE
;
Kyong Ah KIM
;
Myungjae BAIK
;
Jong-Woo PAIK
;
Jinmi SEOL
;
Sang Min LEE
;
Eun-Jin LEE
;
Haewoo LEE
;
Meerae LIM
;
Jin Yong JUN
;
Seon Wan KI
;
Hong Jin JEON
;
Sun Jung KWON
;
Hwa-Young LEE
Author Information
- Publication Type:Original Article
- From:Psychiatry Investigation 2023;20(5):452-460
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Objective:North Korean defectors (NKDs) have experienced substantial difficulties during the migration and settlement in South Korea. They have a high prevalence of depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and suicidal behaviors. The high prevalence of mental disorders among NKDs can lead to a high suicide rate. However, there are no suicide prevention programs for NKDs. This study aims to customize a suicide prevention program with content suitable for NKDs’ particular circumstances.
Methods:A multidisciplinary research team developed this program based on domestic and international gatekeeper training programs for suicide prevention and articles related to suicide prevention.
Results:We developed a multi-part gatekeeper training program, “Suicide CARE for NKDs.” In the “Introduction,” trainees learn about the need for the program and its importance. In “Careful observation,” trainees learn to recognize linguistic, behavioral, and situational signals of suicide risk. In “Active listening,” trainees learn how to ask about suicidal thoughts and to listen empathetically. In “Risk evaluation and expert referral,” trainees learn to evaluate suicide risk and to connect NKDs with institutes or services.
Conclusion:We expect this program to become useful for training gatekeepers to prevent suicide among NKD. A future follow-up study is needed to confirm the efficacy of the program.
