Indicators for training professionals in the area of depression and suicide, and a model training programme

Traditionally, suicide and depression (SD) have been viewed from a treatment point of view, i.e. what are the best steps to treat a suicidal or a depressed patient. These are usually related to the pharmacological treatment of depression. With the implementation of the European Green Paper on Mental Health (2005), and the development of Mental Health Pact (2008), the strategic importance of mental health promotion (MHP) and illness reduction as keystones of Europe-wide mental health policy and practice has never been greater. PROMISE (Promoting Mental Health Minimising Mental Illness and Integration through Education) is an international project, with the specific aim of developing and disseminating comprehensive training guidelines and model programmes for professionals working in health and social care. The present article describes the role of the University of Primorska: adapting the guidelines with regard to SD prevention and developing and implementing a model training programme in SD prevention. Added value was supplied through collaboration with European level health and social service professional bodies, university networks, civil society organizations and non-traditional actors to identify the needs of organisations that provide training in MHP. The project also took into account different countries’ policy and legislation on MHP as well as best practice models; liaising with national governmental and non-governmental organisations working in the area of SD; developing effective working relationships with the local mental health service users and organisations.