Speakers - 2026

Title: Developing and validating a training package for the provision of telephone crisis intervention services to children and adolescents at risk of suicide

Abstract

Background: Telephone crisis intervention is a readily accessible, confidential, and cost-effective method through which distressed children and adolescents can seek immediate psychological support. Given the increasing prevalence of suicidal behaviors among youths, equipping crisis line professionals with structured and evidence-based intervention skills is essential.

Objective: This study aimed to design and develop a structured intervention training package for telephone counselling system experts working with children and adolescents at risk of suicide and to conduct a preliminary evaluation of its validity and applicability.

Method: Currently available guidelines and related articles were reviewed through an extensive literature search across PubMed/Medline, Google Scholar, and Scopus databases from January 2003 to August 2024. Reference lists of selected studies were also examined to identify additional relevant publications. Based on the extracted evidence, the initial content of the training manual was developed. The face validity and content validity of the package were evaluated and recorded using feedback obtained from a panel of specialists and experts in child and adolescent psychiatry and crisis intervention. Necessary revisions were made according to expert recommendations.

Results: The developed training package demonstrated satisfactory face and content validity. Following expert feedback, modifications were incorporated, and the final version of the package was prepared as a structured and comprehensive manual.

Conclusion: The training package can serve as a valid and practical guide for crisis line professionals to acquire essential knowledge and skills for assisting children and adolescents at risk of suicide. Further research is recommended to evaluate its feasibility, effectiveness, and utility in real-world clinical and community settings.