Grant: Planning and Dissemination Grants - Institute/Initiative Community Support

Suicide is an emerging public health concern among Black youth and young adults, yet limited Canadian research has examined the factors contributing to suicidality within Black, African, and Afro-Caribbean communities. North America research suggests increasing rates of suicidal ideation, attempts, and deaths among Black youth, while systemic racism, social exclusion, barriers to mental health care, and other social determinants of health continue to negatively affect well-being. Significant gaps remain in understanding the unique risk and protective factors that influence suicidality among Black youth, including the experiences of Black LGBTQ+ populations. The project will establish a cross-sector Advisory Table comprised of youth, parents, community organizations, educators, healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers. Through community engagement, partnership development, and stakeholder consultations, the project will identify research priorities, service gaps, barriers to care, and opportunities for systems-level change. The objectives are to: (1) develop collaborative research partnerships with Black communities and service providers; (2) identify the social, cultural, structural, and ecological determinants associated with Black youth suicidality, including gender and LGBTQ+ considerations; and (3) inform the development of culturally responsive, racially affirming, community-driven approaches to suicide prevention and mental health promotion. This planning initiative will generate a community-informed research agenda, strengthen cross-sector partnerships, and lay the foundation for future intervention and policy-focused research. Ultimately, the project aims to improve mental health outcomes, reduce health inequities, and support evidence-informed strategies to prevent suicide among Black youth and young adults.