Abstract
Introduction:
Suicide is a major public health issue affecting individuals across all demographics. Despite growing awareness, many community members lack the training necessary to identify and respond to individuals at risk. This highlights a critical gap in suicide prevention strategies: the need to empower non-clinical individuals to act as effective gatekeepers.
Purpose:
The aim of this project was to design, implement, and evaluate BIZI, an accessible, evidence-based, online training program intended to equip the general population with the knowledge and skills required to recognize suicide warning signs and intervene appropriately.
Method:
Developed by a multidisciplinary team from the University of the Basque Country, in partnership with Osakidetza and third-sector organizations, BIZI is a fully online, self-paced training program. The program comprises approximately 9 hours of content, including theoretical modules and four interactive, decision-based case scenarios. Data on completion rates, participant feedback, and self-reported learning outcomes were collected and analyzed.
Results:
To date, BIZI has trained over 4,000 individuals, including teachers, social workers, and other community members. The program achieved an 86% completion rate. Participants reported significant improvements in suicide-related knowledge, confidence in responding to risk, and long-term retention of intervention strategies. The program's accessibility and no-cost model have contributed to its high engagement and broad reach. BIZI has also received recognition from the European Parliament as an innovative and scalable approach to suicide prevention.
Conclusions:
BIZI demonstrates that community-based, online training programs can play a vital role in suicide prevention by bridging the gap between awareness and action. Its success underscores the potential for large-scale implementation across Europe, particularly in rural regions. Universities and public institutions have a critical role in promoting and expanding such initiatives, making suicide prevention a collective and achievable priority.