Silent Struggles: Understanding Suicide Ideation and Attempts among Youth

Suicide remains a significant public health concern across both industrialized and developing nations, particularly affecting young people. This literature review aims to illuminate the global issues surrounding suicide, with a specific focus on the alarming rates of suicide among youth in the Philippines. The review conducts a non-systematic evaluation of current evidence on suicidal ideation and attempts among individuals aged 10 to 24. Utilizing a straightforward corpus analysis method, this study examines a range of recent research to enhance understanding of suicide and its prevalence in this demographic, while also considering age and gender patterns. Given that the suicide rates for this age group are notably high, there is an urgent need to develop effective programs and address the pervasive stigma surrounding mental health. In response, the Department of Health (DOH) in the Philippines has initiated a multi-sectoral approach to mental health, implementing programs and interventions across various settings—including workplaces, schools, and communities—specifically targeting youth.