Experiences of suicidal behaviour and perceived triggers among young people and caregivers at a tertiary healthcare facility in Kenya

Background Suicidal behavior among adolescents and young adults remains a major public health concern. In sub-Saharan Africa, however, qualitative work that captures both youth and caregiver perspectives is still limited. This study explored the experiences of suicidal behavior, perceived triggers and responses to it among young people and their caregivers attending a tertiary facility in Nairobi, Kenya. Methods This qualitative study was conducted at the outpatient youth mental health clinic of a tertiary facility in Kenya, which receives both walk-in clients and referrals. It included 42 young people aged 13–24 years with personal experience of suicidal behavior and 11 caregivers. Participants were recruited purposively, and semi-structured interviews were conducted separately with young people and caregivers. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed thematically using NVivo. Findings Young people described suicidal behavior as developing gradually through cumulative and interacting stressors. Perceived triggers included academic and work-related pressure, family conflict, relationship difficulties, harmful social media experiences, socioeconomic hardship, and psychological or health-related challenges, including depression, substance use, trauma, and abuse. Caregivers expressed concern and willingness to help but frequently reported uncertainty about recognizing distress and responding appropriately. Conclusion Suicidal behavior in this setting reflected the interaction of personal and structural disadvantage rather than a single precipitating event. Prevention should combine youth-friendly mental health care, caregiver psychoeducation, family involvement, school-based support, and community-level action on poverty, stigma, and service access.