Suicide and suicide attempts are serious problems among young adults, especially in Belgium and the Netherlands, with devastating effects on the young adults themselves and their families, and significant economic costs. Despite suicide being the leading cause of death, there has been little research on treatments, particularly on family-oriented treatments. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends involving family members in the treatment of suicidality. However, there is little known about the effectiveness of family-oriented treatments in both Belgium and the Netherlands.

We are investigating Attachment Based Family Therapy (ABFT), a family therapy that has shown positive results in addressing suicidality in the United States. Although ABFT is already used in Belgium and the Netherlands, its specific effectiveness in young adults has not been studied, nor its cost-effectiveness. This research involves 13 participating institutions in the Netherlands and Belgium, including hospitals, mental health care institutions, and private practices. Our goal is to treat 142 young adults aged 18 to 25 who are struggling with depressive thoughts, suicidal ideation, and/or have made previous suicide attempts. We are examining whether ABFT has a significant long-term effect on these symptoms and whether it is cost-effective.

Through this project, we aim to expand the availability of psychological care for young adults at high risk of suicide. The results may contribute to reimbursement for specific therapeutic treatments, thus improving access to paid mental health services. Together, we are striving to develop effective intervention strategies for young adults, a demographic that is unfortunately often overlooked in current healthcare practices.