Results of the DBT-MXAU Program for Suicide Prevention among Mexican Adolescents: A Quasi-experimental Study
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Abstract
Introduction. Suicide and self-harming behaviors pose a significant challenge to adolescent psychosocial well-being, constituting the fifth leading cause of death worldwide among those aged 10 to19. In Mexico, the suicide rate among adolescents aged 15 to 19 is rising, highlighting the need for preventive interventions.
Objective. To evaluate the effectiveness of the DBT-MXAU program, a cultural adaptation of Dialectical Behavior Therapy skills, in reducing suicide risk and improving emotional regulation in Mexican middle school adolescents in urban settings with high social vulnerability.
Method. A multicenter, quasi-experimental design with pre-treatment and post-treatment assessments in three states of Mexico. Participants included 60 adolescents aged 13 to 17 (M = 15.23, SD = 1.59), who attended 11, two-hour weekly sessions of the DBT-MXAU program.
Results. Findings showed a significant reduction in low and moderate suicide risk levels and improvements in emotional clarity and regulation. Adolescents with high suicide risk reported greater use of DBT skills. However, impact varied across regions.
Discussion and conclusion. This study supports the effectiveness of the DBT-MXAU program in reducing low- and moderate-level suicide risks and improving emotional skills in adolescents. The results contribute to the development of evidence-based preventive strategies for urban school contexts in Mexico.
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