Moderated Online Social Therapy for Young People With Active Suicidal Ideation: Qualitative Study

Background Web-based interventions are a promising approach to support youth at risk of suicide, and those incorporating peer-to-peer social networking may have the added potential target interpersonal states perceived burdensomeness thwarted belongingness. Owing feasibility safety concerns, including fear contagion, this had not been tested until recently. In 2018, we conducted pilot evaluation test feasibility, safety, acceptability Moderated Online Social Therapy intervention, called Affinity, with sample young people active suicidal ideation. Objective The aim study is report qualitative data collected from participants regarding their experience web-based network consequent features. Methods Affinity closed website 3 key components: therapeutic content delivered via comics, networking, moderation by peers clinicians. Semistructured interviews were 17 who participated in after 8 weeks exposure intervention. Interview 2 did use excluded analysis. analyzed using thematic analysis, frequency responses characterized consensual research method. results reported accordance Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research checklist. Results A total 4 overarching themes identified: safe supportive environment, importance mutual experiences, difficulty engaging connecting, pros cons banning discussions about suicide. Interestingly, although was be free judgment, concerns negative triggering others significant barriers posting on network. Participants generally supported conversations some reinforce stigma or associated frustration distress. Conclusions only benefit aspect but also highlight several implementation challenges. There need carefully balance stringent design features while ensuring that maximized.