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Table 2 Detailed description of interventions

From: Brief interventions for suicidal ideation in primary care: a systematic review

Author

Description of the Intervention

Bennewith et al. [42]

The intervention aimed to reduce the recurrence of self-harm episodes. Each week, patients presenting with new self-harm incidents within intervention-arm practices were identified via a UK self-harm registry. For first-time incidents, the general practitioner (GP) was notified and provided with a letter to invite the patient for consultation. The GP also received evidence-based guidelines, developed through a modified Delphi method, to standardize the management of self-harm. This approach ensured timely and structured care, enabling individualized counseling and initiation of appropriate therapeutic interventions

Grimholt et al. [43, 44]

The intervention aimed to reduce suicidal ideation and improve follow-up attendance after intentional self-poisoning. Conducted by the general practitioner (GP) over six months, it included an initial consultation one-week post-discharge, followed by monthly appointments for three months and two additional sessions six weeks apart. The structured consultations, based on WHO guidelines and expert consensus, focused on three key areas:

1. Timely Scheduling: Arrange a follow-up within one-week post-discharge

2. Patient Assessment: Address reasons for self-poisoning, primary concerns, suicidal ideation, current treatment, and support needs

3. Follow-up Planning: Schedule additional sessions to ensure consistent care and support

Jerant et al. [45]

The intervention aimed to activate middle-aged men with suicidal ideation to discuss these thoughts with their general practitioners. This was facilitated through the MAPS program (Men and Providers Preventing Suicide), an interactive, 15–20-min computer-based tool designed to encourage disclosure during clinic visits. The program included multimedia modules addressing common barriers and provided guidance on (1) discussing suicidal thoughts with a GP, (2) developing a personalized treatment plan, and (3) monitoring and adjusting the plan in collaboration with the care team

Riblet et al. [46]

The study aimed to evaluate the reduction of suicidal ideation and the feasibility of implementing the “Veterans Affairs Brief Intervention and Contact Program” (VA BIC) within an integrated care system. Modeled on the “World Health Organization Brief Intervention and Contact Program” (WHO BIC) [48], originally developed to prevent post-discharge suicide attempts, the VA BIC adapted to pandemic conditions through video and telephone contacts. The intervention commenced with a one-hour session covering suicide prevention strategies, safety planning, and social support, followed by up to six 30-min follow-up contacts