We propose a pragmatic mixed method implementation project to apply and evaluate our Grief Group Support Model for Suicide Loss Survivors, as applied in underserved populations in Utah that carry disproportionate rates of suicide (rural, Indigenous, persons with serious mental illness and a financially disadvantaged urban community), delivered by mental health clinicians specifically trained in the Caring Connections model. We developed and implemented our Grief Group Support Model for Suicide Loss Survivors for those bereaved by suicide served by Caring Connections: A Hope and Comfort in Grief Program at the University of Utah, and demonstrated a significant improvement in grief severity in group participants. The existing research evidence has been unclear about the value of grief support groups, primarily because many types of groups have been combined in analyses, and there is insufficient scientific rigor in the studies represented in the published literature. The Grief Group Support Model for Suicide Loss Survivors is an evidence-based, manualized intervention delivered by licensed mental health clinicians with established virtual clinician training, and is satisfying for clinicians delivering it. We will determine if the Grief Group Support Model for Suicide Loss Survivors, delivered to suicide loss survivors (“usual customers”) by mental health clinicians (“usual providers”) specifically trained in the Caring Connections Grief Support Group model and applied in underserved populations in Utah that carry disproportionate rates of suicide, reduces grief severity, and improves grief status (desired clinical outcomes).
Engagement Aim. Engage 6-8 mental health clinicians representing 4 distinct agencies serving target populations of suicide loss survivors; their respective agency directors; and a total of 75 loss survivors to participate in 6 suicide loss support groups.
Implementation Aim. Coordinate with recruited mental health clinicians/agencies to virtually train clinicians in the Grief Group Support Model for Suicide Loss Survivors and affirm recruitment and retention of sufficient loss survivors. Enroll NT = 60-75 loss survivors and deliver 6 grief groups in 2 8-session waves of 3 agencies/wave.
Evaluation Aim:
Evaluate the direct effect of the grief support group in suicide loss survivors on reduction of grief severity, in a wait list-controlled design.
Conduct focus groups at the end of each wave of 3 groups with agency directors and clinicians to assess 3 domains: suitability of the suicide loss grief support group for 1. clients served; 2. for setting and MHCs; and 3. for suitability for agency adoption.
Translation Aim. Synthesize data (outcome/process measures and focus group recommendations) to ascertain impact and feasibility for wider dissemination.
This study will contribute to our understanding of the value of clinician-facilitated grief support groups for suicide loss survivors by examining the feasibility of agency engagement, clinician training, participant recruitment and retention, intervention effectiveness and potential for maintenance and dissemination. Results will determine if moderate risk for poor bereavement outcome suicide loss survivors are successfully supported in their loss, enhance clarity in the public health risk framework, and add an important tool for mental health clinicians across a variety of settings and client groups.
