Experiences and challenges of early career researcher investigating youth suicidality in Nepal

This paper explores the methodological and ethical challenges encountered by an early career researcher investigating youth suicidality in Nepal. The study highlights the profound emotional and ethical complexities of researching such a sensitive topic. Key challenges include maintaining confidentiality, navigating cultural sensitivities, and balancing ethical protocols with the immediate needs of participants. The research underscores the importance of cultural sensitivity in addressing suicidality in a context where mental health issues are often stigmatized. It also emphasizes the ethical dilemma of breaching confidentiality, especially when participants' distress involves family issues. Through reflections on personal experiences and insights gained, the paper calls for stringent protocols and the necessity of guidance from experienced researchers and mental health professionals. The findings reveal the significant gaps in methodological and ethical understanding, highlighting the need for further exploration in this critical area of research.