J Korean Neuropsychiatr Assoc.  2024 May;63(2):96-103. 10.4306/jknpa.2024.63.2.96.

A Review on the Components and Improvements of Gatekeeper Training: Focusing on Family Intervention of People With Mental Illness

• You DK
• Hwang TY

• KMID: 2556497
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4306/jknpa.2024.63.2.96

Abstract

Objectives
Patients with mental disorders (PMD) are at high risk of suicide, and family intervention is effective in preventing suicide of PMD. On the other hand, existing training programs only emphasize the role of the family and do not present specific contents. This review examines the components, problems, and improvement measures of gatekeeper training and proposes points to be considered in gatekeeper training programs for families in high-risk suicide groups (e.g., PMD).
Methods
The review included 16 academic papers and research reports, and a literature search was conducted on the following websites: PubMed, APA PsycARTICLES, DBpia, and Korea Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
Results
Most of the gatekeeper training was provided to the general public, and it can improve knowledge, attitude, self-efficacy, and behavioral intention for suicide prevention. Nevertheless, the training programs specialized for families of PMD and the effectiveness studies based on the randomized controlled trial were insufficient.
Conclusion
In the future, it will be necessary to develop customized training programs for participants who are closely related to high-risk suicide groups (e.g., families of PMD) and continue research on the effectiveness.

Keyword

Gatekeeper training; Suicide prevention; Mental illness; Family education