Integrating educational cultural and social health strategies to prevent youth suicidal ideation.

Abstract

This study mainly examines the role of educational institutions and cultural factors in the prevention of suicidal thoughts, especially among young people. The gradual social changes taking place in the contemporary world, together with some extraordinary events, such as the recent global pandemic, have increased the population’s vulnerability to suicidal thoughts. In the specific case of young people, the analysis of educational environments is fundamental, both as spaces where risk factors exist (such as bullying) and as places where prevention can and should be promoted. This work highlights the relevance of designing comprehensive prevention strategies that combine educational, cultural, and socio-health approaches in dialogue with the primary and fundamental psychopathological approaches. It emphasizes how educational institutions can serve as essential spaces for early detection and intervention, particularly when addressing problems such as bullying and marginalization. For its part, cultural sensitivity in specific prevention programs can benefit their application in specific student populations. Based on the conclusions, recommendations are proposed for developing integrated prevention strategies that combine these dimensions in mental health support systems. It is necessary to continue deepening preventive measures based on a better understanding of the complex multidimensional interactions of the problem to improve their effectiveness as much as possible. Advances in access to mental health resources, the development, and expansion of interventions adapted to diverse particularities, the strengthening of collaboration and support networks, as well as the integration of early detection systems in educational settings, which we consider to be a top priority today, would undoubtedly be decisive in any solid prevention strategy.