Suicide Prevention Tactics in Underserved Communities.

 

Youth suicide represents a critical public health problem, and trends show disproportionately high rates among marginalized racial and ethnic groups. This study analyzes survey data from young adults (primarily late 20s to early 40s) in under-resourced communities to identify key factors influencing suicidal ideation and to inform targeted prevention strategies. We found that while many respondents reported comfort or neutrality in discussing mental health, a substantial proportion (approximately 40%) reported experiencing suicidal thoughts, and among those only about 30% sought professional help. Correlational analysis revealed that having supportive social connections was strongly linked to awareness of help resources (r ≈ 0.64), and that financial stress was moderately associated with suicidal ideation (r ≈ 0.39). Respondents overwhelmingly endorsed expanded mental health education and accessible support, frequently citing social support, affordable counseling, and government investment as critical components of prevention. These findings mirror existing evidence that economic hardship and discrimination elevate youth suicide risk, and underscore the importance of strengthening social support and culturally tailored interventions. Based on these results, we recommend comprehensive, community-based prevention approaches—including financial supports, culturally relevant education, and reinforced support networks—to bolster protective factors and reduce suicide risk among marginalised youth. 

According to Statistics and already known data, over 49,000 died by suicide in 2023 (CDC 2023). About 800,000 people die due to suicide each year. Suicide death is tagged the third leading cause of death among young persons aged 15-29 years old.(WHO 2019) . Suicide although widely talked about remains a devastating but Preventable public health crisis that ravages individuals, families, and communities worldwide. Suicide rates has increased by a high rate of 33% in the United States alone since 1999, with the cases of young persons from marginalized communities being on the rise daily. (Mustanski et al..; 2016). 

By marginalised communities we include everyone who lacks the support that they need, but notably the majority of those communities seem to be coming from ethnic minority and LGBTQ backgrounds. The challenges they face include discrimination, public humiliation and rejections, Social isolation and limited access to mental health resources and professionals, all these challenges increases the risk of suicide ideation and behavior in this individuals. 

The aim of this research and study is to contribute to existing studies, exploring and providing ways by which suicide prevention tactics can not only be improved but implemented to cut down the rates of suicide among young individuals from marginalised communities. 

In particular this research will look into and examine the roles played by cultural sensitivity, social support and community engagement in reducing and preventing suicidal ideation and behavior among young persons by identifying effective strategies for suicide prevention, the research also aims to add to the development of target interventions that can help in reducing the burden of suicide behavior among young people from marginalised communities. 

Suicide is a devastating and preventable public health issue that disproportionately affects young people from marginalised communities. Research has consistently shown that these individuals face unique challenges that increase their risk of suicidal behavior, including discrimination, social isolation, and limited access to mental health resources (Hatch et al., 2019; Mustanski et al., 2016). 

Suicide among young people is not just a public health crisis, it’s a silent heartbreak that’s unfolding in communities every day. And when we talk about the ones most affected, it’s often those who already feel left out, young people from marginalized and underserved backgrounds. Many of them grow up carrying burdens no one sees, discrimination, rejection, and a painful lack of access to the help they truly need. 

Cultural factors play a significant role in shaping the mental health experiences of marginalized youth. For example, a study by Gonzalez et al. (2019) found that culturally adapted interventions were effective in reducing suicidal behavior among racial/ethnic minority youth. Similarly, a study by LaFromboise (2006) highlighted the importance of cultural sensitivity in mental health interventions for American Indian youth. 

We understand how much identity and culture shape our mental well-being. For so many of these young souls, their culture is deeply woven into how they process pain, express emotion, or even decide whether to ask for help. That’s why mental health support must go beyond generic solutions. It has to be sensitive, it has to listen, it has to respect where they come from. When care is designed with their voices in mind, it doesn’t just treat, it heals. 

Social support is another critical factor in preventing suicidal behavior among marginalized youth. Research has shown that social support from family, friends, and community members can help mitigate the negative effects of discrimination and social isolation (Hatch et al., 2019). However, marginalized youth often face barriers in accessing social support, including lack of trust in mental health services and fear of stigma (Mustanski et al., 2016). 

Despite these challenges, there is growing evidence that targeted interventions can be effective in reducing suicidal behavior among marginalized youth. For example, a study by Wyman et al. (2010) found that a school-based prevention program was effective in reducing suicidal behavior among American Indian youth. 

There is a growing body of research on suicidal behavior among marginalized youth, there is a need for more studies that examine the effectiveness of targeted interventions in reducing suicidal behavior. Specifically, there is a need for studies that examine the role of cultural sensitivity, social support, and community engagement in preventing suicidal behavior among marginalized communities. 

This study adopts a mixed-methods research design, combining both quantitative and qualitative approaches to provide a comprehensive understanding of suicide risk and prevention among marginalized youth. A mixed-methods approach was chosen because suicide is a multifaceted phenomenon that cannot be fully captured by numerical data alone. Quantitative data provides measurable patterns of suicidal ideation, risk factors, and protective influences, while qualitative data captures the lived experiences, emotions, and contextual nuances that underlie these patterns (Creswell & Plano Clark, 2018). 

By integrating these two approaches, the study seeks to examine not only the statistical prevalence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors but also the subjective meanings and social contexts that shape young people’s mental health. This methodological pluralism is particularly 

appropriate when researching vulnerable populations, as it enables researchers to balance objectivity with empathy and cultural sensitivity. 

The study focused on young people aged 15–35 years from marginalized communities, including but not limited to: racial and ethnic minorities, LGBTQ+ youth, and individuals from low-income households. These groups were selected because existing evidence highlights their disproportionate exposure to discrimination, stigma, and economic hardship, which significantly increase their risk of suicide (WHO, 2019; Mustanski et al., 2016). 

A purposive sampling strategy was employed to ensure the inclusion of participants who represent these marginalized populations. This approach allowed the research team to recruit individuals with diverse experiences of marginalization, thereby enriching the analysis. In addition to young people themselves, the study also sought the perspectives of community leaders, educators, and mental health advocates working directly with these populations through questionnaires; their insights contribute to a more holistic understanding of the challenges and potential interventions. 

Quantitative Surveys – Structured questionnaires were distributed to capture demographic data, prevalence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, levels of comfort in discussing mental health, and perceived access to support systems. Surveys also included items on social determinants such as poverty, education, employment, and social media influence. 

Qualitative Interviews and Focus Groups – Semi-structured interviews and group discussions were conducted with a subset of participants to gain deeper insights into personal experiences, coping mechanisms, and perspectives on suicide prevention. These conversations allowed participants to articulate feelings and experiences that cannot be fully represented through surveys alone. 

Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR) – This approach engaged community stakeholders in both the design and interpretation of the study. CBPR was employed to ensure that the voices of marginalized communities were central to the research process. By involving community organizations and youth advocates, the study sought to increase trust, reduce barriers to participation, and co-create practical recommendations for suicide prevention. 

Given the sensitive nature of suicide research, strict ethical guidelines were followed. All participants were informed about the objectives of the study and provided informed consent prior to participation. For participants under 18 years of age, parental consent was obtained alongside youth assent. Confidentiality and anonymity were strictly maintained, with all personal identifiers removed during data analysis and reporting. 

Furthermore, because discussions about suicide can trigger distress, participants were provided with immediate referrals to local mental health services and hotlines if needed. Trained facilitators were present during interviews and focus groups to provide emotional support, and participants were assured that their involvement was entirely voluntary and could be withdrawn at any time without consequence. 

The aim of this study was to investigate the factors influencing suicidal ideation and behavior among young people from marginalized communities and to explore effective strategies for suicide prevention. The findings presented here are derived from both quantitative survey data and qualitative insights gathered through interviews and community engagement. Together, they provide a comprehensive overview of the demographic profile of participants, their experiences with mental health, the social and economic stressors contributing to suicidal ideation, and the opportunities for strengthening prevention. 

The largest proportion of respondents fell between the ages of 25–34 years (42%), followed by those aged 35–44 years (27%). This shows that suicidal ideation in marginalized communities is particularly prevalent among young adults transitioning through education, employment, and family responsibilities. 

Participants were asked to rate their comfort levels in discussing mental health on a scale ranging from 1 (very comfortable) to 5 (very uncomfortable). The results revealed a spectrum of responses. While many reported feeling comfortable or neutral when discussing mental health issues, a notable share expressed discomfort. This finding highlights the persistent stigma surrounding mental health conversations, even among individuals who are themselves vulnerable. Interestingly, the data showed almost no correlation between age and comfort level (r ≈ 0.02), suggesting that stigma is influenced more by cultural and social dynamics than by generational differences. 

A significant number of respondents acknowledged having experienced suicidal thoughts at some point in their lives. Despite this, many of them had not sought professional or informal help. This gap between suicidal ideation and help-seeking behaviors is particularly concerning 

given that access to appropriate mental health services is already limited in marginalized communities. Patterns of suicidal ideation varied slightly by gender, but both male and female participants reported considerable rates. When analyzed against employment status, the data revealed that unemployed individuals were the most likely to report suicidal thoughts, followed by students and informally employed respondents. These findings demonstrate the powerful link between economic instability and mental health vulnerability among young people. 

The analysis revealed that financial stress was one of the most prominent contributors to suicidal ideation. A moderate positive correlation (r ≈ 0.39) was observed between financial hardship and the presence of suicidal thoughts. Many participants reported either personal experiences of financial stress leading to distress or knowing someone who had such experiences. This finding emphasizes the significant role of economic disadvantage in shaping suicide risk. 

Social media was also highlighted as a factor influencing suicidal thoughts. A majority of respondents believed that social media contributed to feelings of isolation, comparison, and distress. However, statistical analysis showed only a weak direct correlation (r ≈ 0.13) between social media use and suicidal ideation. This suggests that while social media may amplify perceptions of inadequacy or social exclusion, it does not consistently act as a direct trigger for suicidal behavior. Nonetheless, its role in shaping young people’s mental health narratives and self-esteem remains an important consideration in prevention strategies. 

Another key finding relates to participants’ willingness to engage in mental health education. Across the sample, there was a strong interest in receiving mental health education, particularly when such programs were tailored to their cultural and community contexts. Statistical analysis revealed a moderate correlation (r ≈ 0.40) between willingness to learn and past participation in mental health programs, indicating that prior exposure increased openness to continued engagement. This finding underscores the importance of sustained education and awareness campaigns that target both individuals and broader communities. Respondents emphasized that schools, religious organizations, and community centers could play a central role in spreading awareness and reducing stigma around suicide. 

The qualitative responses provided deeper insights into the causes of suicidal ideation, coping mechanisms, and prevention preferences. 

Causes of Suicide: Participants frequently cited poverty, stress, depression, loneliness, and family-related pressures as major drivers of suicidal thoughts. These responses affirm that both social and economic factors weigh heavily on young people’s mental well-being. 

Coping Strategies: When asked how they cope with distress, participants mentioned practices such as prayer, talking to trusted friends or family, listening to music, reading, crying, or engaging in physical activities such as walking. These responses reflect a mix of emotional release, social support, and personal resilience strategies. 

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Prevention Ideas: Many participants stressed the importance of support networks, awareness programs, and increased access to affordable therapy. They highlighted education, love, and understanding as critical to reducing the burden of suicidal behavior in their communities. 

Support Preferences: Respondents expressed a strong preference for empathetic listening and professional counseling. They valued the role of mental health professionals but emphasized the importance of being heard and understood without judgment. 

Role of Government: A recurring theme was the expectation that governments should take greater responsibility in mental health care. Suggestions included funding awareness campaigns, improving access to services, subsidizing therapy, and enacting policies to ensure fair and inclusive healthcare provision. 

Several important relationships between variables were identified through statistical analysis. Having someone to talk to was strongly correlated (r ≈ 0.64) with knowing where to seek help, indicating that individuals embedded in strong support networks were also more aware of available resources. Similarly, a moderate correlation (r ≈ 0.40) was found between willingness to receive mental health education and prior participation in such programs, highlighting the reinforcing effect of early exposure. Finally, the moderate correlation (r ≈ 0.39) between financial stress and suicidal ideation further confirmed the profound role of economic hardship in shaping suicide risk. 

By contrast, some relationships appeared weak or negligible. For example, age showed almost no correlation with comfort in discussing mental health (r ≈ 0.02), while social media influence and suicidal thoughts displayed only a weak correlation (r ≈ 0.13). These findings suggest that while certain factors like financial stress and social support play direct and significant roles in shaping suicidal ideation, others such as age and social media operate more indirectly. 

The findings of this research reveal important insights into the complex relationship between marginalization and suicidal behavior among young people. Consistent with global data (WHO, 2019; CDC, 2023), the study confirms that suicide is a leading cause of death among youth, but it also highlights that young people from marginalized communities experience unique risk factors that demand tailored interventions. 

The demographic analysis showed that the majority of respondents fell between the ages of 25 and 34 years, aligning with evidence that suicide rates are particularly high among young adults navigating transitions in education, employment, and social responsibilities. Unemployment emerged as one of the most significant predictors of suicidal ideation, with nearly half of unemployed respondents reporting suicidal thoughts. This reinforces the established link between economic insecurity and poor mental health outcomes (Hatch et al., 2019). 

Education presented a more nuanced picture. Respondents with college or university education reported the highest prevalence of suicidal thoughts, a finding that may reflect increased awareness and willingness to disclose mental health struggles. It may also point to the pressures associated with higher education and job market competition. These results highlight the need for educational institutions to integrate mental health support into their programs and provide targeted interventions for students. 

One of the notable findings was the persistence of stigma in discussing mental health, with over a quarter of respondents expressing discomfort. This aligns with previous literature which emphasizes that stigma acts as a major barrier to help-seeking behavior, particularly in marginalized groups (Mustanski et al., 2016). While stigma was found to cut across age groups, the data showed no significant correlation between age and comfort levels, suggesting that stigma is socially and culturally rooted rather than generational. 

This finding underscores the importance of culturally sensitive interventions that normalize conversations about mental health within communities. Programs that incorporate cultural identity, traditional practices, and inclusive language are more likely to resonate with young people who might otherwise avoid mainstream mental health services (Gonzalez et al., 2019; LaFromboise, 2006). 

Financial stress emerged as one of the most consistent contributors to suicidal ideation, with more than half of respondents linking financial hardship to suicidal thoughts. The correlation analysis further confirmed a moderate positive relationship between economic insecurity and suicide risk. This supports arguments in the literature that suicide prevention must extend beyond 

clinical intervention to address broader social determinants of health, such as poverty, unemployment, and inequality (Bridge et al., 2018). 

The role of social media, while less direct, remains significant. Although correlation analysis showed only a weak association, a majority of respondents believed that social media contributes to suicidal ideation by amplifying social comparison, feelings of inadequacy, and isolation. This suggests that while social media may not directly cause suicidal thoughts, it can exacerbate existing vulnerabilities, particularly among youth.

 

Despite these challenges, the findings also highlight protective factors that can guide effective interventions. Social support networks were strongly associated with awareness of mental health resources, confirming their role as a buffer against distress. Respondents emphasized the importance of empathetic listening, peer relationships, and supportive community environments. This aligns with prior research showing that peer-led and community-based programs can significantly reduce suicidal behavior among marginalized youth (Wyman et al., 2010). 

Furthermore, the overwhelming willingness among respondents to engage in mental health education demonstrates a strong potential for preventive initiatives. Education campaigns that are culturally sensitive, community-driven, and accessible could play a transformative role in reducing stigma and increasing help-seeking behavior. 

The results of this study suggest that suicide prevention strategies must move beyond individualized models of care to address the broader social, cultural, and structural contexts in which marginalized youth live. Policymakers should prioritize investment in school-based programs, affordable counseling services, and community partnerships that reflect the lived realities of these populations. Expanding access to telehealth, integrating mental health curricula into schools, and providing targeted economic support for vulnerable youth could significantly reduce suicide risk. 

At the same time, grassroots organizations and local leaders should be empowered to co-develop and lead interventions. Community ownership not only ensures cultural relevance but also enhances sustainability and trust. This aligns with community-based participatory approaches, which were central to this study’s methodology and are increasingly recognized as best practice in suicide prevention. 

Suicide is not merely an individual mental health issue—it is deeply rooted in broader societal, cultural, and structural contexts. Young people from marginalized communities experience intersecting forms of oppression that compound their mental health challenges. These include racism, homophobia, transphobia, xenophobia, economic disadvantage, and generational trauma. As such, suicide prevention for these populations must move beyond symptom management and consider the social determinants of mental health. 

For example, Black youth in the United States have shown increasing rates of suicide attempts over the last two decades, even while the rates for white youth have remained more stable (Bridge et al., 2018). This disparity is often linked to systemic racism in education, policing, and healthcare, where Black youth may feel unsafe, misunderstood, or judged. For LGBTQ+ youth, data from The Trevor Project (2023) reveal that more than 45% of LGBTQ+ young people seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year, with the rates even higher among transgender and nonbinary individuals. 

Cultural sensitivity in suicide prevention involves more than just language translation or hiring diverse staff—it requires a foundational shift in how mental health care is conceptualized and delivered. Youth from marginalized communities often perceive traditional mental health systems as alienating, pathologizing, or untrustworthy. 

Community-based and culturally adapted interventions have shown great promise. Programs that incorporate storytelling, traditional healing practices, or spirituality can connect with youth in ways that clinical models may not. For instance, the “Zuni Life Skills Curriculum,” developed for Native American youth, incorporates cultural values, tribal history, and life skills training, resulting in a reduction in suicide risk behaviors (LaFromboise, 2006). 

Additionally, involving families and communities in treatment planning helps build trust and accountability. Faith-based organizations and cultural community centers can be valuable allies in reaching youth who might otherwise never seek help. 

Social support functions as a critical protective factor in suicide prevention. When young people feel connected to others and perceive that they matter, they are less likely to engage in self-harm 

or suicidal behavior. This is especially true for youth in marginalized settings, where isolation may be intensified by identity-based exclusion. 

Schools serve as critical environments for providing social support. Programs like peer mentorship, anti-bullying campaigns, and “safe space” initiatives have been proven effective in helping youth feel more connected. In fact, research by Espelage et al. (2015) found that LGBTQ+ inclusive school climates were associated with lower levels of suicide ideation and attempts. 

Peer support programs are especially potent because they leverage relatability. Young people are more likely to open up to those who have similar lived experiences. This has given rise to initiatives like peer-led crisis lines, school ambassador programs, and youth mental health advocacy training. 

Technology plays an increasingly important role in reaching marginalized youth with mental health support. Many young people prefer the anonymity and convenience of online platforms. Apps that allow for mood tracking, digital journaling, and crisis chat can serve as early interventions before distress escalates. 

However, equity in access remains a concern. Digital interventions must be designed with language inclusivity, low-data requirements, and culturally relevant content. Collaborations with tech companies and advocacy organizations are needed to fund and deploy these tools in underserved areas. 

Moreover, algorithms and machine learning are being explored to identify suicide risk through social media posts and text-based communication. Ethical concerns around privacy and consent must be carefully addressed, but the potential for early detection through digital footprints is vast. 

One limitation in current research is the lack of disaggregated data. Suicide statistics often fail to account for intersecting identities. For example, we know little about suicide risk among Black transgender youth, or rural Latinx LGBTQ+ adolescents. Without this data, it's nearly impossible to develop interventions that meet these groups’ specific needs. 

Intersectionality, a concept coined by Kimberlé Crenshaw, emphasizes that people do not experience marginalization in a single-axis way. A young queer Black girl living in a low-income neighborhood will experience discrimination differently than a white rural gay boy or a disabled Indigenous youth. Suicide prevention must be tailored to these layered experiences, or it risks missing its most vulnerable targets. 

Barriers to care are one of the strongest contributors to preventable suicides. These include: financial constraints, the lack of insurance or money to pay for therapy, geographical isolation, language barriers, stigma, fear of being misunderstood. 

To reduce these barriers, several policy changes are necessary. These include expanding telehealth access, investing in school-based counselors, subsidizing mental health services for uninsured youth, and enforcing anti-discrimination policies in healthcare settings. 

Top-down approaches to suicide prevention often fail because they do not resonate with the lived experiences of those affected. Empowering communities to create and lead their own prevention programs is more sustainable and impactful. Grassroots youth organizations, student unions, and local nonprofits often have a better understanding of cultural norms, slang, and values than national agencies. 

Programs that employ community health workers, train peer educators, or fund local youth initiatives demonstrate that solutions are most effective when they are created by the communities they aim to serve. Participatory research, in which youth codesign and co-evaluate interventions, is another method that ensures relevance and sustainability. 

Suicide prevention cannot rely solely on mental health practitioners. Broader structural changes are required to address upstream causes of distress such as investment in public education that includes comprehensive mental health curricula, universal screening for depression and anxiety in schools, fund mental health programs specifically for marginalized youth, with accountability metrics, train law enforcement to handle mental health crises with non-lethal, trauma informed approaches, address economic inequality through housing, education, and job programs targeted at disadvantaged communities. 

I extend my sincerest gratitude to Kelvin Voen, Founder of We Hold A Hand Foundation, for providing me with the opportunity to participate in this research project. My deepest appreciation goes to Martyna Kalarikkal, Team Lead of the research team, for her unwavering support, guidance, and encouragement throughout the research process. Her expertise in data analysis and editing was invaluable. I would also like to thank Salum Mehboob Mselem (Tariq) for initiating this project with me, gathering academic resources, and providing questionnaires used throughout the project. Additionally, I appreciate the support of Blessing Terkura in finalizing this project. Special thanks to all members of the research team for their assistance in sharing questionnaires and to the entire We Hold A Hand team for their collective efforts. This research project, titled "How to Improve Suicide Prevention Tactics to Reduce Suicide Rates Among Young People from Marginalized Communities," would not have been possible without the contributions of each and every one of you. 

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LaFromboise, T. D. (2006). American Indian Life Skills Development Curriculum: A Culturally Appropriate Intervention Program. Journal of American Indian Education, 45(2), 11–27. 

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Wyman, P. A., Brown, C. H., LoMurray, M., Schmeelk-Cone, K., Petrova, M., Yu, Q., & Wang, W. (2010). An outcome evaluation of the Sources of Strength suicide prevention program delivered by adolescent peer leaders in high schools. American Journal of Public Health, 100(9), 1653–1661.