| Abstract [eng] |
Suicide rates in Lithuania remain among the highest in Europe, making suicide prevention an especially pressing public health issue. In Vilnius, despite improving suicide rates and the existence of a suicide prevention strategy, no evaluation studies of the strategy have been conducted. Therefore, it is necessary to assess the effectiveness of existing suicide prevention models and the possibilities for improving them. Research aim. To analyze and evaluate the suicide prevention models implemented in Vilnius, identify their shortcomings, and develop recommendations for improving these models. Research objectives. (1) To assess the suicide prevention models applied in Vilnius and their theoretical basis. (2) To assess the practical implementation of these models in Vilnius. (3) To determine whether individuals experiencing suicide risk receive appropriate support, how they evaluate it, and what issues they encounter in the suicide prevention system. (4) To prepare recommendations for improving suicide prevention in Vilnius. Methods. A mixed design study was conducted, using semi-structured interviews. The study consisted of two parts: initial interviews with individuals who had experienced suicide risk at a mental health center and follow-up telephone interviews fourteen days later. Eighteen respondents participated in the initial interviews, and fifteen participated in the follow-up interview. Results. The results of the study revealed that although most participants rated the help they received after experiencing suicide risk as effective, several key limitations emerged: a lack of awareness about possible help, stigma related to mental health, and long waiting times in the healthcare system. The study also found that treatment continuity was not ensured in Vilnius: fourteen out of fifteen follow-up interview participants reported no follow-up contact from their primary healthcare institution as mandated by regulations. Conclusions. The study concluded that although suicide prevention measures implemented in Vilnius align with international recommendations, their application remains fragmented, with a lack of follow-up support and a lack of public awareness and mental health literacy. Based on the findings, recommendations were formulated, focusing on the systematic improvement of suicide prevention in Vilnius. |
