Suicide Prevention Program on Suicidal Behaviors and Mental Well-being among School Aged adolescents: A Scoping Review

Yasmin Nadeem Parpio^1*Rozina Nuruddin¹Tazeen Ali¹Nuruddin Mohammad¹Uzma Khan¹Salman Shahzad²Murad Khan¹Mehreen Aslam^1,3*

• ¹Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
• ²Institute of clinical psychology Gulistan e Johar Karachi, Pakistan, Karachi, Pakistan
• ³National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS), Rawalpindi, Punjab, Pakistan

This paper reviews evidence-based literature on suicide prevention interventions for enhancing mental well-being and reducing suicidal behavior among school-aged adolescents. In this scoping review, PRISMA-ScR guidelines were employed to systematically search for relevant studies meeting the inclusion criteria in five databases (PubMed, Psych Info, Google Scholar, Science Direct, EBSCO, and ProQuest). Following Arksey and O'Malley's five-phase framework, key findings of 37 peer-reviewed papers related to effective strategies and interventions were synthesized. Among the reviewed studies, diverse interventions ranging from school-based programs like the Signs of Suicide (SOS) student training and digital platforms to therapeutic and family-based approaches for school-age adolescents demonstrated significant results. Outcomes consistently showed improvements in mental well-being, self-efficacy, and help-seeking behaviors, along with reductions in suicidal ideation and self-harm. Future research should prioritize the integration of diverse, culturally sensitive school-based mental health services and risk screening programs, adapting interventions to align with the cultural norms and values of specific communities, particularly in low-and middle-income countries where research gaps persist. Enhancing access to support and implementing resilience-building initiatives at the primary school level can empower adolescents with vital help-seeking skills and resources. These strategies are essential for fostering a supportive environment that effectively promotes mental well-being and prevents suicide among youth. Limitations of this review include the exclusion of non-peer-reviewed literature. Policymakers and school administrators should consider these findings when developing and implementing suicide prevention programs.