Research priorities for suicide prevention in Southeast Asia

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Global Mental Health
• Preventive Medicine

Background:

• Suicide is a major preventable cause of death in Southeast Asia (SEA).
• The SEA region faces a disproportionate global suicide burden.
• Research, funding, and policy attention for suicide prevention in SEA are insufficient.

Purpose of the Study:

• To articulate ten priority research areas for suicide prevention in SEA.
• To guide stakeholders in shaping funding, editorial focus, and interagency action.
• To address the underrepresentation of SEA in suicide prevention research.

Main Methods:

• Surveys, workshops, and roundtable discussions were convened.
• A regional forum informed the identification of research priorities.
• Stakeholder input guided the development of the priority agenda.

Main Results:

• Ten priority research areas were identified for suicide prevention in SEA.
• Priorities include strengthening surveillance, addressing social determinants, and integrating cultural contexts.
• Key areas also cover substance use, youth suicide, mental health, implementation science, and policy translation.

Conclusions:

• A coordinated research agenda is crucial for suicide reduction in SEA.
• Focusing the research and funding ecosystem on SEA's unique context is essential.
• Advancing these priorities will contribute to regional and global suicide reduction targets.