Technical and clinical assessment of suicide prevention mobile applications for Brazilian young people: features and limitations

Introduction: suicide remains a leading cause of death among adolescents and young adults in Brazil, and the country’s limited access to specialized mental health services further exacerbates this public health concern. In this context, mobile health (mHealth) technologies have emerged as potentially valuable tools due to their accessibility and low cost. However, their increasing popularity raises ethical concerns and questions regarding their effectiveness, data security, and cultural relevance. This study investigates the technical and clinical quality of suicide prevention applications available to Brazilian users, particularly in supporting adolescents and young adults. Objective: the objective of this study was to assess the structural quality and functionality, alignment of suicide prevention mobile applications available to adolescents and young people in Brazil. The evaluation was using a framework based on the ISO/TS 82304-2:2021 standards and adapted from usability and clinical content criteria, aiming to identify technical gaps, data security, and integration with crisis services. Methods: the research was conducted between October and November 2024. A total of 17 mobile applications were identified and selected from the Google Play Store and Apple App Store based on inclusion criteria aligned with suicide prevention purposes. The mobile applications were evaluated using technical and assistive parameters grounded in prior scientific literature and guided by the ISO/TS 82304-2:2021 standards, which provide benchmarks for the quality and reliability of health and wellness software. Results: The evaluation revealed that although the mobile applications exhibit potential for innovation due to their wide availability and affordability, most of them lack scientific validation, theoretical grounding, and integration with emergency support services. Several deficiencies were observed in terms of data security, usability, and language accessibility. While some mobile applications employed artificial intelligence, its application was generally limited to automated responses without clinical oversight or proven efficacy. Only a few tools provided direct access to Brazil’s national emotional support service (CVV), and customizable safety planning options were rare. Overall, mobile applications were not equipped to replace human interaction or professional mental health care. Conclusion: The findings highlight the urgent need for the development of robust mobile applications that align technological innovation with ethical regulations, public health policies, and intersectoral care practices in Brazil. Mobile applications may serve as complementary tools in suicide prevention, but they are not substitutes for professional care and human connection. Future research should prioritize clinical validation, cultural adaptation, and the integration of such technologies into Brazil’s public healthcare system (SUS) to ensure comprehensive protection and mental well-being support for adolescents and young people.