Who Are the "Gatekeepers" and How Can They Help in Suicide Prevention

A study analyzes the impact and challenges of training key individuals in identifying and supporting people at risk of suicide

Suicide prevention has incorporated the training of gatekeepers for decades. These are strategically positioned individuals within the community who can detect warning signs and act before a crisis occurs. A recent study reviews the effectiveness of these training programs and highlights the need for more rigorous research to assess their real impact on reducing suicide deaths.

Gatekeepers are not necessarily mental health professionals. Instead, they are people who, in their everyday environments, can serve as the first point of contact for someone in crisis. This group includes teachers, police officers, social workers, customer service staff, or even friends and family members. Suicide prevention training aims to enhance their ability to recognize risk signs, intervene confidently, and guide the person toward professional or community support.

The study points out that while these programs have shown improvements in knowledge and attitudes toward suicide prevention, there is still limited evidence on whether they produce sustained behavioral changes in gatekeepers and, more importantly, in the outcomes of those who receive their support. Long-term follow-ups are necessary to evaluate whether these interventions successfully increase preventive actions and whether at-risk individuals find effective support through these informal networks.

The authors emphasize that gatekeeper training should not be an isolated strategy but part of a comprehensive suicide prevention approach that includes strengthening mental health care, awareness campaigns, and institutional support. They also note that tailoring training to different profiles—from citizens without prior experience to professionals with specific roles—could optimize its effectiveness and sustainability.

Reference to original work: Spafford, S. G., Silverman, M. M., & Gutierrez, P. M. (2025). What is known about suicide prevention gatekeeper training and directions for future research. Suicide and Life‐Threatening Behavior, 55(1), e13130. https://doi.org/10.1111/sltb.13130