Abstract
A BSTRACT Youth suicide remains a major global public health concern and a leading cause of death among adolescents and young adults. Its determinants are complex and span multiple sectors, including health, education, social services, justice systems, and community environments. Traditional health sector-focused approaches are insufficient, underscoring the need for intersectoral collaboration. However, the effectiveness of such collaboration depends not only on multisectoral engagement but also on continuity of care across services and over time. This narrative review synthesizes the evidence on intersectoral collaboration in youth suicide prevention from a public health perspective. It examines how collaboration is conceptualized and implemented, the role of continuity of care – including informational, relational, and managerial dimensions – and identifies key barriers, facilitators, and best practices. The findings indicate that while intersectoral collaboration is widely recognized as essential, its implementation remains constrained by fragmented governance, misaligned funding, limited data interoperability, and differences in professional cultures. Continuity of care emerges as a critical mechanism linking collaboration to improved outcomes, particularly during high-risk transitions. International models highlight the importance of formal governance structures, integrated service delivery, shared data systems, cross-sector workforce development, and meaningful engagement of young people and families. Strengthening youth suicide prevention requires a shift toward integrated, multisectoral systems that prioritize continuity of care. Future efforts should focus on embedding intersectoral governance, enhancing care coordination, developing interoperable data systems, and establishing standardized indicators to evaluate the continuity of care across diverse contexts.