To share or not to share? Evaluation of a strategic disclosure program for suicide attempt survivors

While suicide attempt survivors often choose to conceal their suicidal thoughts and behaviors to avoid stigma, concealment might also limit the support they receive. This study evaluated a peer-led strategic disclosure intervention for suicide attempt survivors (N = 38) who were randomized to either a 6-hour group disclosure intervention or waitlist control. Results showed a significant group-by-time interaction from baseline to post-intervention on two measures of self-stigma, depression, and self-esteem, but not for other variables. Effect sizes were medium to large. Findings suggest that suicide attempt survivors may benefit from interventions that address self-stigma and disclosure.