Development of best practice guidelines for clinical and community service providers to prevent suicide in LGBTQA+ young people: A Delphi expert consensus study

• Published in: Australian and New Zealand journal of psychiatry 2024-05, Vol.58 (5), p.425-434
• Main Authors: Strauss, Penelope, Marion, Larissa, Hill, Nicole TM, Gilbey, Dylan, Waters, Zoe, Moore, Julia K, Costanza, Marco, Lamblin, Michelle, Robinson, Jo, Lin, Ashleigh, Perry, Yael
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adolescent; Adult; Australia; Consensus; Delphi Technique; Female; Health Personnel; Humans; Male; Practice Guidelines as Topic - standards; Sexual and Gender Minorities - psychology; Suicidal Ideation; Suicide Prevention; Young Adult
• ISSN: 0004-8674; 1440-1614
• DOI: 10.1177/00048674231223697

Objective: The aim of this study was to develop best practice guidelines for preventing suicide and reducing suicidal thoughts and behaviours in LGBTQA+ young people (lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer/questioning, asexual, and those of other diverse sexualities and genders) within clinical and community service settings in Australia. Methods: We conducted a Delphi expert consensus study. A systematic literature search and interviews with key informants informed an initial 270-item questionnaire. Two expert panels completed the questionnaire, delivered over two rounds: (1) Australian professionals with expertise in LGBTQA+ mental health/suicide prevention and (2) Australian LGBTQA+ young people aged 14–25 with lived experience of suicidal thoughts and/or behaviours. Items endorsed as ‘essential’ or ‘important’ by >80% of both expert panels were included in the guidelines. Results: A total of 115 people participated in the Delphi process; n = 52 professionals completed Round 1, and n = 42 completed Round 2; n = 63 LGBTQA+ young people completed Round 1, and n = 50 completed Round 2. A total of 290 items were included in the guidelines and grouped into: (1) general principles for creating an affirming and inclusive environment for LGBTQA+ young people; (2) assessing suicide risk and working with suicidal LGBTQA+ young people; (3) considerations for specific LGBTQA+ populations; and (4) advocating for LGBTQA+ young people. Conclusion: These guidelines are the first of their kind in Australia. They provide practical support to service providers regardless of prior training in LGBTQ+ identities or mental health, with the aim of reducing suicidal thoughts and behaviours, and preventing suicide, in LGBTQA+ young people.