Many studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of specific interventions in reducing suicide deaths. It seems clear, therefore, that suicide can be prevented, but it is also evident that to achieve this, we all need to be involved and committed to this essential goal.

There are three levels of prevention, depending on the target group. Universal prevention is aimed at the general population; indicated prevention targets a population group at higher risk of developing a problem, such as people with depression; and selective prevention targets people who have already attempted suicide. Regarding suicidal behavior, when we talk about universal prevention in adolescents, we are primarily referring to universal interventions within the school setting, such as Empowering a Multimodal Pathway Toward Healthy Youth (EMPATHY) or Saving and Empowering Young Lives in Europe (SEYLE).

Regarding targeted and selective suicide prevention, we are referring to interventions that address the essential elements of suicide, such as pain, hopelessness, and attachment, and that help alleviate distress and incorporate personal resources. Examples of these include treatments such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT ), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT ), and Mentalization-Based Therapy (MBT ). These three interventions are not only geared toward treating individuals at risk, but are also specifically designed for suicidal ideation and attempts.