Ulrika Lögdberg

Research problem and specific questionsIn Sweden, in the past 20 years, suicide rates have declined in all age groups except those under 25. Despite extensive research, we still do not fully understand why young people take their own lives. Existing interventions have failed to reverse this trend. This highlights a critical need to gain deeper insight into young people’s everyday lives—their thoughts, emotions, and struggles, as this is key to developing effective prevention strategies. In response to this, the current project aims to develop a suicide prevention intervention model based on young people’s experiences to improve social policies, healthcare, and support services for youth. Specifically, it seeks to:Understand youth suicidal processes,Examine how young people, significant others, and professionals perceive and respond to emerging suicidality, andIdentify critical potential intervention points.Data and methodsThis exploratory case study integrates event analysis methods used in youth suicide investigations. By combining qualitative approaches—including medical records, digital footprint analysis, and interviews with young suicide survivors, significant others, and professionals—the study aims to reconstruct life trajectories and identify factors influencing suicidal pathways.Societal relevance and utilisationThe project addresses an urgent societal challenge: the rising suicide rates among young people. Many youths who die by suicide have never been in contact with mental health services, highlighting the need for prevention strategies that are better adapted to their everyday lives and support systems. By integrating perspectives from youth and key actors, this research will inform more effective policies and youth suicide interventions. Findings will be shared with professionals working with youth to ensure practical application in healthcare, education, and social services.Plan for project realizationThis three-year project will fund the main applicant (60%), a research assistant (50%), and an ethics expert (20%). Based at the National Centre for Suicide Research and Prevention (NASP), the project will benefit from established networks and expertise, facilitating its execution and development.