AlterNative: An International Journal of Indigenous Peoples, 2025, First published online, 27 May 2025

Suicidal behavior, which includes suicidal ideation, attempted suicide, and completed suicide, disproportionately affects Indigenous communities, exacerbated by factors like lack of education, limited job opportunities, access difficulties to basic needs, cultural identity loss, domestic violence, and substance abuse. Consequently, Indigenous communities have developed practices and processes that serve as protective factors, promoting mental health and preventing suicidal behavior. The aim of this article is to describe and analyze the practices that Indigenous individuals and communities have developed to address complex issues such as suicidal behavior. The study employed a qualitative approach using Community-Based Participatory Research, utilizing techniques and methodologies specific to Indigenous communities, with grounded theory for information analysis. Indigenous communities in the Department of Antioquia, northwest Colombia, have developed practices to address suicidal behavior, based on connection with the territory, family and community relationships, belief systems, and intercultural dialogue. (Authors' abstract). Record #9263