Validation and Testing of a Suicide Prevention Program to Improve Mental Well-Being Among Adolescents in Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan: A Pre/Post-Intervention Protocol

Background Globally, around 800,000 people die annually by committing suicide with a disproportionate burden of 77% of these deaths occurring in low- and middle income countries. Suicidal ideation is frequently observed among adolescents and is directly associated with suicidal attempts. Pakistan has witnessed a marked escalation in suicide rates in recent years, with Gilgit-Baltistan reporting the highest incidence. Extensive scholarly inquiry suggests the potential role of suicide prevention strategies in mitigating suicidal ideation, attempts, and related fatalities. This study aims to validate and evaluate the efficacy of a locally contextualized suicide prevention programs called RAAHI (the Guide) and safeTALK in improving the mental wellbeing of school-going adolescents in the Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan. Method and Analysis The investigation will evaluate the effectiveness of a locally contextualized suicide prevention intervention program called RAAHI based on internationally tested out program named safeTALK among 267 adolescents attending 4 private schools in Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan, followed by its contextual validation. 'RAAHI', a suicide literacy module is designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to recognize signs of suicidal ideation, engage them empathetically, and connect those in crisis with support. It promotes open discussions, combats stigma, and encourages preventive measures for widespread suicide literacy. The, safeTalk a 4-hour psychoeducational workshop, aimed to prevent adolescent suicide through presentations, videos, discussions, and interactive sessions. Participants learned to identify warning signs, engage in TALK steps (Tell, Ask, Listen, KeepSafe), and connect individuals with crisis support. Employing an \& interrupted time-series design through a pre-post-test framework, the study will assess the impact of the intervention at various time points, post intervention (T2) and follow up after 8 weeks (T3). Descr