Closing the policy gap in children and youth suicide in low- and middle-income countries: The case for mental health policies

Suicide is the third leading cause of death among children and youth aged 10-24, and nearly three-quarters of suicides occur in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Despite global efforts, children and youth mental health and suicide prevention remain underprioritized in national policy and are often deployed separately in LMICs. Governments should develop standalone, multisectoral mental health policies for children and youth that integrate suicide prevention strategies and that address social determinants of suicide risk. This commentary aims to inform national policymakers, global health and international development actors, and researchers engaged in the mental health and suicide prevention of children and youth in LMICs.