Gatekeeper training is a prevention method for training local community members to recognize the signs and symptoms of suicide and to support appropriate referrals for mental health. Training community “gatekeepers” is critical for increasing access to care for those youth that are in need as youth often turn first to friends and family for help. This study examines online role-play gatekeeper training simulations with emotionally responsive avatars that have memory and personality and respond like real students experiencing psychological distress.
Virtual On-Line Training Simulations demonstrate the usefulness for training AI/AN professionals and community members who are not formally trained in mental health. Given the current disparities in suicide rates, the usefulness of the training simulations makes them important tools for preparing teachers and students as well as the general community to identify the signs and symptoms of suicide and make appropriate links to referrals.
Given the high workforce turnover and transient nature of many AI/AN communities, an online training simulation is amenable to address training of new staff, as well as periodic retraining to support, maintain, and even increase the skills of seasoned professionals.
The online training simulations also provide realistic role play to support trauma informed responses with continual feedback in a friendly, nonjudgmental environment. The avatar does not judge participants, and performance in the role-playing tasks remains confidential.
The virtual training courses can be tailored and adapted to meet the cultural and geographical needs of each AI community. The virtual training simulations provide participants with local resources they can use to link those at risk to support services.
Research paper by Dr’s Bartgis and Albright
http://go.kognito.com/rs/143-HCJ-270/images/HiEd_PK-12_AmericanIndian_AlaskaNative_Study.pdf
At-Risk K-12 simulation page
https://kognito.com/products/at-risk-for-high-school-educators
Friend2Friend peer suicide prevention training simulation page
https://kognito.com/products/friend2friend
