Sammy Dubaisi
Pronouns: he/him
Research Mentor(s): Cynthia Ewell Foster
Research Mentor School/College/Department: Dept. of Psychiatry and University Center for the Child and Family, Rackham Graduate School / Other
Program:
Authors: Sammy Dubaisi, Kristen Smith, Pia Nair, Christina Magness, Cynthia Ewell Foster
Session: Session 2: 10:00 am – 10:50 am
Poster: 7
Abstract
Individuals who are incarcerated are at elevated risk for suicide yet are often under-served. Michigan’s statewide Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)-funded program Preventing Suicide in Michigan Men (PRISMM) intentionally targets this vulnerable population via workforce training and protocol development to reduce suicide rates within Michigan’s Department of Corrections (MDOC). As part of an initiative to improve clinical care, behavioral health professionals at MDOC were offered the opportunity to participate in Assessing and Managing Suicide Risk (AMSR) trainings. In an initial study, 33 certified mental health professionals, supervisors, and leaders from the Michigan Department of Corrections participated in AMSR training. Following training, participants completed an online survey aimed at assessing the impact of the training and identifying challenges to its implementation within correctional settings. Qualitative data were analyzed using an inductive approach to qualitative content analysis to explore participants’ learning experiences, perceived challenges in implementing the training within a corrections setting, and to establish a foundational understanding for systemic improvements. This research contributes to a growing body of knowledge aimed at improving suicide prevention within correctional settings which serve high numbers of individuals at risk for suicide.
