The role of Primary Health Care in Preventing Youth Suicide: From Identity Crisis to Integrated Strategies under WHO Guidelines

Abstract

Introduction: Youth suicide is a public health emergency in Brazil, with rising rates among those aged 10–24. Factors such as identity crises during adolescence and limited access to mental health care contribute to this alarming situation. Objective: To analyze how Primary Health Care can prevent and reduce youth suicide, in light of World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines and Jung’s concept of individuation. Methodology: A narrative literature review and analysis of official documents (WHO and Ministry of Health) were conducted, encompassing epidemiological data, risk/protective factors, and primary care intervention experiences. Results: Adolescence is a stage of specific vulnerabilities — notably identity crises exacerbated by social pressures — which may heighten the risk of suicidal ideation. Primary Health Care, while ideally positioned for prevention, faces challenges: underreporting of cases, health teams insufficiently trained in mental health, and weak coordination with the broader health and social care network. Successful experiences indicate that integrated actions in PHC (such as training in suicide risk assessment, use of screening protocols, and empathic patient engagement), combined with WHO strategies like the “LIVE LIFE” framework, can reduce suicidal behavior.  Final Considerations: A multifaceted approach — uniting the potential of Primary Health Care (guided by Barbara Starfield’s principles) with global WHO directives and national policies — can effectively prevent youth suicide. This approach should range from tackling psychosocial factors (such as adolescent identity crises) to systemic improvements in mental health care delivery at the primary level.