Implementation of a Universal Screening and Referral Program for University Students at Risk of Suicide: A Case Study and Recommendations

Background: University students are at heightened risk of suicide and are reluctant to reach out for support. Traditional risk assessment approaches are unreliable, prompting calls for psychosocial assessments with multivariable algorithms grounded in person-centred approaches. This paper outlines considerations in implementing one such program, identifying potential implementation barriers and offering recommendations for minimising them. Method: We conducted three surveys with university staff and students (total N = 672) to assess acceptability of a preventative screening and referral program. Participants were also asked to identify barriers to implementing such a program within university settings. Results: Staff and students thought universal screening and referral would be acceptable, and important to implement. Identified barriers included privacy, risk and liability, appropriate resourcing, and cultural appropriateness. Conclusion: Universal preventative screening and referral for suicide risk among university students is a feasible, and scalable, means of identifying students at risk and offering support before they reach crisis point. Identifying barriers early, and having strategies to minimise them, can ease the way to successful implementation.

Keywords

Screening, Suicide prevention, University students

Citation

Hasking P, Robinson K, Tonta K. (2025). Implementation of a Universal Screening and Referral Program for University Students at Risk of Suicide: A Case Study and Recommendations. Journal of the Australian and New Zealand Student Services Association. 33. 1. (pp. 82-102).

URI

https://mro.massey.ac.nz/handle/10179/73106

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