International Consultancy – Mental Health Consultant for Adolescent Suicide Study at UNICEF

The consultant will:

• Conduct an in-depth desktop review of the available research and data on risk factors, drivers and protective factors for adolescent suicide in East and Southern Africa Region with the aim of identifying trends, including high or at-risk populations, and considering region specific and emerging factors e.g. recurrent public health emergencies, climate events, HIV and SRHR etc. Results should include reference to specific gender issues and data as is available. The desk review should also ascertain the presence or absence of suicide prevention strategies in the (21) UNICEF ESAR counties of operation and which of these is adolescent specific or is inclusive of children and adolescents.
• (based upon the desk review) develop research questions, methodology and undertake a deeper dive study into a (minimum) of 6 countries in the region using innovative methods to expand evidence ensuring the inclusion of key stakeholders. Stakeholders should represent subject matter experts from health, protection and social service sectors (programmatic, policy and academic), representatives from community-based organizations and youth association/groups.  The study should seek to identify, address and document:
• Deeper understanding of cultural norms and help seeking and coping practices of adolescent boys and girls (both negative and positive).
• Concrete case examples of successful suicide prevention strategies for adolescents in the region.
• Potential barriers for suicide prevention strategies within the region and the possible causation considering the whole ecosystem from policy, system, community to individual level.
• Potential approaches for culturally and gender appropriate and acceptable mental health and suicide prevention interventions, including entry points at the health, education and social care systems.
• Using the evidence collected, the consultant will present a report and resource package including the products as specified in the table below for use by UNICEF Country Offices, UNICEF ESARO and partners (including youth advocates for mental health) in developing and advocating for suicide prevention programmes at country level. These should include concrete recommendations for potential suicide prevention approaches and methodologies that can be used programmatically across sectors and at different levels political, system and community level. The final report should include reference to data gaps and further research priorities as relates to suicide prevention strategies for adolescents.
• The consultant will present these findings to the MHPSS Technical Working Group, Regional MHPSS Community of practice and one other regional event (yet to be determined)
• Work relationships: The consultant will work under the supervision of the Programme Specialist (MHPSS) and will collaborate with members of the UNICEF ESARO MHPSS Technical Working Group and UNICEF Youth Advocates for mental health. She/he will also collaborate with other key stakeholders as identified during the inception phase.

Desired competencies, technical background and experience

• Education: Advanced degree from a recognized academic institution in related field (Mental Health, Public health, Medical Sciences, Social Sciences/Anthropology, Psychology, or related field) A first University Degree in a relevant field combined with 2 additional years of professional research experience may be accepted in lieu of an Advanced University Degree.

Required:

• Minimum 8 years of professional experience working experience in Health or social care programmes with, with desired experience in Mental Health and/or Adolescent Health
• Research experience in LMIC on the topic of adolescents or youth health, mental health and/or psychosocial wellbeing
• Previous experience of qualitative interviews and thematic analysis
• Ability to analyse technical information quickly and present it simply for audiences as well as
• demonstrating fast, accurate, and versatile writing skills
• Experience working in a multicultural environment
• Previous experience working with/collaborating with young people is an asset
• Language: Excellent English oral and written communication skills.