THE USE OF MOBILE PHONE APPLICATIONS IN THE PREVENTION OF SUICIDAL BEHAVIOR: A TECHNOLOGICAL PROSPECT

Abstract

Introduction: suicidal behavior is a complex public health issue that requires effective prevention strategies. Mobile applications have emerged as promising tools for mental health support and suicide prevention. Method – this is a technological foresight study based on an integrative literature review and an app search in Google Play and Apple Store. A total of 70 scientific articles published between 2018 and 2022 and 63 mobile applications related to suicide prevention were analyzed. Results – most apps offer functionalities such as safety plans (28.6%), emergency buttons (25.4%), and educational content (19.0%). A lack of strong scientific evidence and specific regulatory standards was noted. Applications targeting specific groups, such as war veterans and Indigenous populations, showed better cultural adaptation. Conclusion – mobile applications show great potential in suicide prevention but still lack scientific validation, regulatory compliance, and adaptation to local needs to ensure their effectiveness and safety.