Abstract

Suicide is one of the leading causes of death in the world, a problem that has been steadily increasing in recent years for the adolescent population. In particular, suicidal ideation has been strongly associated with suicide attempt, a direct predictor of suicide; however, few strategies to decrease suicidal ideation designed primarily for depression are found. Considering the therapeutic possibilities of Zimbardo's theory on balanced time perspective, in the present study a brief intervention for adolescents based on that theory was designed with the aim of evaluating the effect of a time perspective intervention on the modification of indicators of suicidal ideation and behavior in adolescents. Thus, an experimental study was conducted, where 82 participants aged 15 to 19 were assigned to either an experimental intervention or a control group. The participants of the experimental group (n = 43) engaged in eight sessions of the time perspective intervention program called "Serenity". Pre-post measurements were made on the variables of suicidal ideation (Okasha), time profile (ZTPI) and quality of life (SF-36). Results show that the intervention reduces suicidal ideation by 41%; and that, possibly, it improves the physical health of those who receive this type of treatment. The results are a promising advance for preventive purposes in educational and health contexts.