Breaking the Silence: Understanding Youth Suicide in Rural Pakistan through the Lens of Bhakkar District

Abstract

Pakistan experiences a serious public health emergency concerning youth suicide, mainly in its rural areas because access to healthcare and mental health advice is limited and the subject is still stigmatized. The article studies the reasons leading to youth suicide in the Bhakkar area by talking with survivors, family members and professionals who care for their mental health. The study shows, using interviews and analysis of themes, that youth suicide has psychological, social, economic and cultural factors that should be considered. Based on the study, it is evident that culture-sensitive programs, better mental health services and community-driven prevention in rural areas are required for Pakistani people.