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Creegan M, O'Connell M, Griffin E, O'Connell S. Exploring posttraumatic growth in individuals bereaved by suicide: A secondary data analysis of a national survey. DEATH STUDIES 2024:1-9. [PMID: 38990548 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2024.2376823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
This article explores the concept of posttraumatic growth (PTG) in individuals bereaved by suicide. The present study employs an exploratory approach to examine secondary data from a national survey. A sample of 2369 (n = 2369) responses were examined. Various instruments were utilized to assess grief experiences, social support, and personal growth. Descriptive statistics, correlational analysis and a hierarchical regression model were used to examine the relationship between the variables in this study. Hierarchical regression analysis revealed six independent predictors of PTG: social and formal support, time since loss, grief experiences, gender and multiple losses. The study highlighted the potential for growth in the aftermath of suicide bereavement, emphasizing the critical role of social support and the importance of time in promoting PTG. Despite some limitations, the present findings provide novel insight into the underlying mechanisms of PTG in suicide-bereaved individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Creegan
- School of Psychology, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Eve Griffin
- National Suicide Research Foundation, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Selena O'Connell
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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Causer H, Spiers J, Chew-Graham CA, Efstathiou N, Gopfert A, Grayling K, Maben J, van Hove M, Riley R. Filling in the gaps: A grounded theory of the experiences and needs of healthcare staff following a colleague death by suicide in the UK. DEATH STUDIES 2024:1-12. [PMID: 38602818 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2024.2337202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Health-workers are more likely to die by suicide than their counterparts in other occupational groups. The suicide of a staff member can be widely felt by colleagues, leading to complex emotional and cognitive responses. Exposure to suicide heightens the risk of dying by suicide. We investigated the impact of a colleague suicide on National Health Service (NHS) staff. Twenty-nine staff were interviewed; all participants were white British, and so not representative of the ethnic make-up of the NHS. Data were analyzed using grounded theory methods. A theory, "filling in the gaps" was developed. Staff experiences gave rise to needs that were not always met. Staff endeavored to "fill in the gaps" in support; however, sometimes fell through those gaps. Organizational and professional contexts shaped their experiences and responses. Recommendations include skilled and targeted support and compassion for affected staff. Cultural change is needed to challenge suicide stigma and unhelpful narratives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilary Causer
- School of Health Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Johanna Spiers
- School of Health Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | | | - Nikolaos Efstathiou
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Institute of Clinical Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Anya Gopfert
- Department of Public Health and Sports Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | | | - Jill Maben
- School of Health Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Maria van Hove
- Department of Public Health and Sports Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Ruth Riley
- School of Health Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
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Logan N, Krysinska K, Andriessen K. Impacts of suicide bereavement on men: a systematic review. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1372974. [PMID: 38655522 PMCID: PMC11035897 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1372974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction This systematic review examines the impacts of suicide bereavement on men's psychosocial outcomes relating to suicidality, mental health, substance use, grief, and social functioning. Given the high global incidence of suicide and the substantial number of individuals affected by each suicide, understanding the specific experiences and outcomes for men is crucial, particularly in the context of observed gender differences in suicide rates, grief coping styles and mental health outcomes. Methods Adhering to PRISMA guidelines, this review included peer-reviewed, English-language studies that involved men bereaved by suicide using quantitative, qualitative and mixed-methods designs. Searches were conducted in MEDLINE, Embase, Emcare, PsycINFO, and Scopus. Analysis used narrative synthesis methods due to the heterogeneity of findings. These were categorised based on comparison groups: non-bereaved men, or women bereaved by suicide. Prospero registration: CRD42023437034. Results The review included 35 studies (25 quantitative, 8 qualitative, 2 mixed-methods) published between 1995 and 2023. Compared to non-bereaved men, suicide-bereaved men are more likely to experience adverse psychosocial outcomes included increased suicide mortality, heightened susceptibility to mental health problems such as depression and posttraumatic stress disorder, and challenges in interpersonal relationships and social functioning. The review also identified gender differences in grief responses and coping strategies, with men often exhibiting more pronounced grief reactions and facing unique challenges due to societal expectations and norms regarding masculinity. Discussion The findings of this review underscore the elevated risk of adverse suicide- and mental-health related outcomes for suicide-bereaved men and the need for tailored postvention supports for this cohort. Gender-specific factors, including cultural norms and coping strategies, significantly influence men's experiences of suicide bereavement. Further qualitative and longitudinal quantitative exploration is needed to enhance understanding and effective support for men bereaved by suicide. Systematic Review Registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42023437034.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Logan
- Centre for Mental Health and Community Wellbeing, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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O'Connell S, Troya MI, Arensman E, Griffin E. "That feeling of solidarity and not being alone is incredibly, incredibly healing": A qualitative study of participating in suicide bereavement peer support groups. DEATH STUDIES 2024; 48:176-186. [PMID: 37092540 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2023.2201922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Suicide can have a significant impact on the bereaved. Peer support groups for suicide bereavement have been shown to enhance the wellbeing of those attending. However, research is lacking on the mechanisms that underlie these benefits. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 adults attending peer-facilitated support groups in Ireland and thematic analysis was used. The findings highlighted the enduring emotional impact including guilt and questioning, loss of identity, as well as wider impacts. Mechanisms of the groups included the opportunity to share experiences and feel validated, connection and belongingness and collective processing of grief. Groups were found to have a unique role alongside other informal and formal supports. This study highlights the important role of peer support groups in lessening this burden and adds to the literature through identifying potential mechanisms by which peer support groups contribute to improved wellbeing for the suicide-bereaved and practical steps to facilitate these mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - M Isabela Troya
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Ella Arensman
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- National Suicide Research Foundation, Cork, Ireland
| | - Eve Griffin
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- National Suicide Research Foundation, Cork, Ireland
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Čepulienė AA, Skruibis P. The functions of the dreams of the deceased: A qualitative study of women bereaved by partner's suicide. DEATH STUDIES 2023:1-10. [PMID: 38117247 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2023.2297063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Suicide bereavement is a challenging experience that affects relationships, feelings, and physical and mental health. The research on dreams during suicide bereavement might deepen the understanding of how the loved one's suicide affects the person and what functions the dreams can have during the bereavement process. Therefore, the goal of the current study was to explore the functions of the dreams of the deceased during suicide bereavement in a sample of 9 women bereaved by their partner's suicide. The data was gathered by conducting semi-structured interviews and analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Three themes were generated: dreams function as helping during the process of suicide bereavement; dreams reflect the traumatic aspects of suicide bereavement; dreams function as a space to maintain or sever an ongoing relationship with the deceased. The findings reveal that dreams can function in different ways and can be a valid part of suicide bereavement.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paulius Skruibis
- Suicidology Research Centre, Faculty of Philosophy, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
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Balt E, Heesen K, Popma A, Gilissen R, Mérelle S, Creemers D. Guiding principles for the implementation of a standardized psychological autopsy to understand and prevent suicide: a stakeholder analysis. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1256229. [PMID: 38025435 PMCID: PMC10644706 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1256229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Around 700,000 people die by suicide each year. While the global number of suicides declined over the last decade, the rates remained unchanged in the Netherlands. With this study, we aimed to provide guiding principles for the implementation of a national standardized psychological autopsy to better understand and prevent suicide, by exploring stakeholder perceptions and needs, and barriers to implementation. Methods We interviewed 47 representative stakeholders from various fields (e.g., mental healthcare professionals, policy advisors, researchers). A semi structured interview design was used, based on the RE-AIM and Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) theoretical frameworks. Results Themes relating to stakeholder perceptions and needs for a standardized psychological autopsy included valorization, accountability, integrability and the needs of the bereaved. Stakeholders believed that participation in a psychological autopsy can help bereaved in their process of grief but noted that evidence to frame the psychological autopsy as postvention is insufficient. The primary focal point should accordingly be to better understand and prevent suicide. Several key limitations of the proposed psychological autopsy approach were detailed, both methodological and implementational. Conclusion The stakeholder analysis delineates guiding principles for implementation. Stakeholders believe that a standardized psychological autopsy has merit, provided that key considerations, including valorization and accountability, are integrated in its design. Routine evaluation should be ensured. The findings may guide policy makers and researchers in their endeavors to support a learning, community-based approach for suicide prevention based on a standardized psychological autopsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elias Balt
- Research Department, 113 Suicide Prevention, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Karlijn Heesen
- Research Department, 113 Suicide Prevention, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Arne Popma
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry & Psychosocial care, Amsterdam University Medical Centre, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Renske Gilissen
- Research Department, 113 Suicide Prevention, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Saskia Mérelle
- Research Department, 113 Suicide Prevention, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Daan Creemers
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, GGZ Oost-Brabant, Boekel, Netherlands
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Stanley AR, Aguilar T, Holland KM, Orpinas P. Precipitating Circumstances Associated With Intimate Partner Problem-Related Suicides. Am J Prev Med 2023; 65:385-394. [PMID: 36933753 PMCID: PMC11261426 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2023.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/20/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In 2020, suicide was the 12th leading cause of death among adults in the U.S. Previous research has shown that one common precipitating circumstance among adult suicide decedents is experiencing intimate partner problems (IPPs), such as divorce, separation, romantic break-ups, arguments, conflicts, and intimate partner violence. This study examines how precipitating factors differ between IPP- and non-IPP-related suicides. METHODS In 2022, this study analyzed National Violent Death Reporting System data from adult suicide decedents in 48 states and 2 territories between 2003 and 2020. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to compare precipitating circumstances between IPP- and non-IPP-related suicides, controlling for sociodemographic characteristics. RESULTS Of the 402,391 suicides, 20% (n=80,717) were known to be IPP-related. Circumstances that significantly increased the odds of IPP-related suicides included a history of suicidal thoughts and attempts and mental health problems (depressed mood, alcohol problem, mental health diagnosis), life stressors (interpersonal violence perpetration and victimization, arguments, financial problems, job problems, family problems), and recent legal problems. Non-IPP-related suicides were more likely to occur among older individuals and to be precipitated by a physical health problem or crime. CONCLUSIONS The findings can inform prevention strategies that build resiliency and problem-solving skills, strengthen economic support, and identify and assist people at risk for IPP-related suicides. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Suicide Resource for Action and Intimate Partner Violence Prevention resource packages highlight the best available evidence for policies, programs, and practices related to preventing suicides and IPP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayana R Stanley
- Division of Violence Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia.
| | - Tatiana Aguilar
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Kristin M Holland
- Division of Violence Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Pamela Orpinas
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavior, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
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YAZGI ZG, YILMAZ M. Role of the Psychiatric Nurse in Improving the Psychosocial Health of Families After Suicide. PSIKIYATRIDE GUNCEL YAKLASIMLAR - CURRENT APPROACHES IN PSYCHIATRY 2023. [DOI: 10.18863/pgy.1138902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
Abstract
Suicide is defined as death that occurs as a result of deliberate self-harming behavior with the intention of ending one's life. Each suicide has many physical, economic and psychological short and long-term effects on the individual, family, friends and society. The death of an individual as a result of suicide creates a traumatic effect for family members and causes family members to experience various psychosocial problems. For this reason, it is very important to focus on the consequences of suicide in family members who have lost due to suicide, to evaluate the family's reactions to suicide, and to provide the needed psychosocial support. In this context, in this review, it is aimed to review the literature on the psychosocial problems experienced by families who have lost due to suicide and to present up-to-date information on the role of psychiatric nurse in improving the psychosocial health status of families.
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Zavrou R, Charalambous A, Papastavrou E, Koutrouba A, Karanikola M. Trying to keep alive a non-traumatizing memory of the deceased: A meta-synthesis on the interpretation of loss in suicide-bereaved family members, their coping strategies and the effects on them. J Psychiatr Ment Health Nurs 2023; 30:182-207. [PMID: 35996970 DOI: 10.1111/jpm.12866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
WHAT IS KNOWN ON THE SUBJECT?: Losing a family member due to suicide has been described as a traumatic experience, as suicide-bereaved relatives grapple to accept the particular character of death and the core elements of guilt, self-criticism and stigma it inflicts. There are long-term consequences for those who bereave due to the suicide of their beloved on, a high risk for mental and physical health problems included. Feelings of guilt and self-stigma influence help-seeking behaviour among suicide-bereaved individuals. WHAT THE PAPER ADDS TO EXISTING KNOWLEDGE?: Coping mechanisms adopted by suicide-bereaved individuals mediate the impact of suicide on their family, and especially on the quality of relationships among them. Supporting others in need can help alleviate guilt and self-blame for the suicide while it enables the bereaved to fulfil their need to keep a non-traumatizing, or even positive bond with the deceased. WHAT THE IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE ARE?: Nursing interventions to facilitate suicide-bereaved family members' participation in self-help support groups and promote their engagement in supporting others in need are important. Mental health nurses need to facilitate the replacement of dysfunctional coping strategies, such as substance use or self-blame with more adaptive ones focused on the personal needs of the bereaved, in order to help them embrace a non-traumatizing memory of the deceased while being in peace with the social environment. Screening for mental health problems and management of shame, self-stigma and guilt during the grieving period needs to be a priority in nursing interventions. ABSTRACT INTRODUCTION: Losing a family member to suicide is a traumatic experience which includes guilt and self-stigma. Yet, there is lack of data synthesis on the survivors' experience. AIM A meta-synthesis of qualitative data on the interpretation of loss in suicide-bereaved family members, their coping strategies and the effects on family. METHOD A meta-ethnographic synthesis following a systematic literature search and evaluation of the methodological quality of the selected studies was applied. RESULTS The narratives of 326 individuals (parents/siblings/children/spouses) reported in sixteen studies were analysed. Trying to achieve a balance between keeping alive a non-traumatizing memory of the deceased, destigmatizing and liberating themselves from self-blame, self-criticism and guilt while being able to transform this experience into support towards others in need, was identified as the essence of the experience of the bereaved. DISCUSSION Although suicide within a family is a traumatic experience, spiritual and existential implications among the bereaved have been reported; their coping mechanisms mediate the impact of suicide on family sustainability. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Nursing interventions to facilitate adoption of coping strategies centred on keeping a non-traumatizing memory of the deceased among the bereaved and promote their participation in self-help groups and activities to support others in need are important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafailia Zavrou
- Division of Nursing, Cyprus Mental Health Services, Paphos, Cyprus.,Department of Nursing, Cyprus University of Technology, Limassol, Cyprus
| | | | | | - Anna Koutrouba
- Department of Nursing, Cyprus University of Technology, Limassol, Cyprus
| | - Maria Karanikola
- Department of Nursing, Cyprus University of Technology, Limassol, Cyprus
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McDonnell S, Flynn S, Shaw J, Smith S, McGale B, Hunt I. Suicide bereavement in the UK: Descriptive findings from a national survey. Suicide Life Threat Behav 2022; 52:887-897. [PMID: 35611626 PMCID: PMC9790485 DOI: 10.1111/sltb.12874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Those bereaved by suicide are a high-risk group of adverse health outcomes and suicidal behavior, yet little is known about the experiences and support needs of these individuals in the UK. METHODS We conducted a national cross-sectional study using an online survey and analyzed the experiences of 7158 participants who had been bereaved or affected by suicide. RESULTS Suicide had a major impact on 77% of participants, including those who had lost a friend and those exposed to suicide at a professional level. Mental and physical health problems linked to the suicide were reported in half. Adverse social outcomes and engaging in high-risk behaviors following the suicide were common. Over a third reported suicidal ideation and 8% had attempted suicide as a direct result of the suicide loss. Most had not accessed support services, with the majority viewing provision of local suicide bereavement support as inadequate. CONCLUSIONS Our results highlight the need for a multi-disciplinary approach in postvention and the provision of proactive outreach to support those bereaved by suicide. Postvention efforts need to acknowledge the death of a friend by suicide as a significant loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon McDonnell
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and HealthCentre for Mental Health and SafetyUniversity of ManchesterManchesterUK,Suicide BereavementRamsbottomUK
| | - Sandra Flynn
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and HealthCentre for Mental Health and SafetyUniversity of ManchesterManchesterUK
| | - Jenny Shaw
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and HealthCentre for Mental Health and SafetyUniversity of ManchesterManchesterUK,Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation TrustManchesterUK,Independent Advisory Panel on Deaths in CustodyLondonUK
| | - Shirley Smith
- If U Care Share FoundationChesterUK,Support After Suicide PartnershipLondonUK
| | - Barry McGale
- Suicide BereavementRamsbottomUK,Support After Suicide PartnershipLondonUK
| | - Isabelle M. Hunt
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and HealthCentre for Mental Health and SafetyUniversity of ManchesterManchesterUK
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Leaune E, Rouzé H, Lestienne L, Bislimi K, Chalancon B, Morgiève M, Grandgenèvre P, Vaiva G, Laplace N, Poulet E, Haesebaert J. The Needs, Use and Expectations of People Bereaved by Suicide Regarding Online Resources: An Online Survey. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:12156. [PMID: 36231459 PMCID: PMC9566504 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191912156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Online resources constitute a new and effective way to obtain support or information during bereavement processes. However, little is known about the needs, use and expectations of people bereaved by suicide regarding online resources. METHOD The objective of our national cross-sectional online survey was to collect the use, needs and expectations of people bereaved by suicide regarding online resources. The data were collected from July to October 2021 through a 26-item online questionnaire hosted on the website LimeSurvey. RESULTS A total of 401 respondents fully completed the questionnaire. Their mean age was 45.7. The majority of participants were women bereaved by the suicide of their child or partner. Half of the participants were bereaved for less than 3 years and benefited from counselling during their bereavement process. Three-quarters of the participants used the Internet for their bereavement process, mainly to obtain information on suicide bereavement and suicide prevention and to access testimonies of other people bereaved by suicide. Three-quarters of the participants found that available online resources for people bereaved by suicide are insufficient and expected a dedicated web platform to be developed. Finding information on suicide bereavement and on suicide prevention, discussing with a mental health professional and accessing testimonies of other people bereaved by suicide were expected by a majority of the participants regarding the future platform. Receiving counselling and being bereaved by the death of a child were the most important factors in explaining patterns of use and expectations regarding online resources. DISCUSSION Our results offer precise insights into the needs, use and expectations of people bereaved by suicide regarding online resources. The development of web platforms offering access to reliable information on suicide bereavement and on suicide prevention to peers bereaved by suicide and help to seek counselling are urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edouard Leaune
- Centre Hospitalier Le Vinatier, 69678 Bron, France
- INSERM, U1028, CNRS, UMR5292, Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, Psychiatric Disorders: From Resistance to Response—PSYR2 Team, 69000 Lyon, France
- Groupement d’Etude et de Prévention du Suicide, 29200 Brest, France
- Research on Healthcare Performance RESHAPE, INSERM U1290, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, 69100 Villeurbanne, France
| | - Héloïse Rouzé
- Research on Healthcare Performance RESHAPE, INSERM U1290, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, 69100 Villeurbanne, France
- Service Recherche et Epidémiologie Cliniques, Pôle Santé Publique, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 69003 Lyon, France
| | - Laurène Lestienne
- Centre Hospitalier Le Vinatier, 69678 Bron, France
- INSERM, U1028, CNRS, UMR5292, Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, Psychiatric Disorders: From Resistance to Response—PSYR2 Team, 69000 Lyon, France
| | | | | | - Margot Morgiève
- Groupement d’Etude et de Prévention du Suicide, 29200 Brest, France
- Cermes3, Université Paris Cité, CNRS, Inserm, 75006 Paris, France
| | - Pierre Grandgenèvre
- Groupement d’Etude et de Prévention du Suicide, 29200 Brest, France
- U1172-LilNCog-Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, University of Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, 59000 Lille, France
| | - Guillaume Vaiva
- Groupement d’Etude et de Prévention du Suicide, 29200 Brest, France
- Cermes3, Université Paris Cité, CNRS, Inserm, 75006 Paris, France
- U1172-LilNCog-Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, University of Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, 59000 Lille, France
- Centre National de Ressources & Résilience Pour Les psychotraumatismes (Cn2r Lille Paris), 59000 Lille, France
| | | | - Emmanuel Poulet
- Centre Hospitalier Le Vinatier, 69678 Bron, France
- Groupement d’Etude et de Prévention du Suicide, 29200 Brest, France
- Department of Emergency Psychiatry, Hospital Edouard Herriot, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 69003 Lyon, France
| | - Julie Haesebaert
- Research on Healthcare Performance RESHAPE, INSERM U1290, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, 69100 Villeurbanne, France
- Service Recherche et Epidémiologie Cliniques, Pôle Santé Publique, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 69003 Lyon, France
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Causer H, Spiers J, Efstathiou N, Aston S, Chew-Graham CA, Gopfert A, Grayling K, Maben J, van Hove M, Riley R. The Impact of Colleague Suicide and the Current State of Postvention Guidance for Affected Co-Workers: A Critical Integrative Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:11565. [PMID: 36141837 PMCID: PMC9517643 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191811565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
People bereaved by suicide are affected psychologically and physically and may be at greater risk of taking their own lives. Whilst researchers have explored the impact of suicide on family members and friends, the area of colleague suicide has been neglected and postvention guidance for supporting surviving colleagues is often poorly developed. This critical integrative review explored the impact of colleague suicide on surviving co-workers and reviewed postvention guidance for workplaces. Systematic searches found 17 articles that met the inclusion criteria. Articles were appraised for quality and extracted data were analysed using a thematic network method. Article quality was moderate. Two global themes were developed: impact of a colleague suicide comprised themes of 'suicide loss in the workplace'; 'professional identities and workplace roles'; 'perceptions of professional uniqueness'; and 'professional abandonment and silencing'. Postvention following a colleague suicide comprised 'individualised responses'; 'the dual function of stigma'; and 'complex pressure on managers'. A unifying global network 'after a colleague suicide' describes the relationships between all themes. A series of disconnects between existing postvention guidance and the needs of impacted workers are discussed. This review demonstrates the need for robust, systemic postvention for colleagues impacted by the complex issue of colleague suicide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilary Causer
- School of Health Sciences, University of Surrey, Kate Granger Building, 30 Priestly Road, Surrey Research Park, Guildford GU2 7YH, UK
| | - Johanna Spiers
- School of Health Sciences, University of Surrey, Kate Granger Building, 30 Priestly Road, Surrey Research Park, Guildford GU2 7YH, UK
| | - Nikolaos Efstathiou
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Institute of Clinical Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Stephanie Aston
- Samaritans, The Upper Mill, Kingston Road, Ewell, Surrey KT17 2AF, UK
| | | | - Anya Gopfert
- Department of Health and Community Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter EX4 4PY, UK
| | | | - Jill Maben
- School of Health Sciences, University of Surrey, Kate Granger Building, 30 Priestly Road, Surrey Research Park, Guildford GU2 7YH, UK
| | | | - Ruth Riley
- School of Health Sciences, University of Surrey, Kate Granger Building, 30 Priestly Road, Surrey Research Park, Guildford GU2 7YH, UK
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Kaspersen SL, Kalseth J, Stene-Larsen K, Reneflot A. Use of Health Services and Support Resources by Immediate Family Members Bereaved by Suicide: A Scoping Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:10016. [PMID: 36011651 PMCID: PMC9408753 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191610016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The knowledge on health service use, systematic follow-up, and support for families bereaved by suicide remains scarce. This scoping review includes studies from 2010 to March 2022 that investigate the follow-up and support offered by health services, peer support services, and other resources available (e.g., internet-based resources) for families bereaved by suicide. We followed the scoping review framework provided by the Johanna Briggs Institute and performed a double-blinded screening process using Covidence. Data were extracted by four researchers and a thematic analysis was performed to summarize the results. The PRISMA Extension for Scoping reviews was used for reporting results. Of 2385 studies screened by title, 190 by abstract, and 93 by full-text reading, we included 63 original articles of which 24, 29 and 10 were quantitative, qualitative, or mixed-methods studies, respectively. The review shows that we have some knowledge about the need for, and experiences with, health services and support resources for immediate family members bereaved by suicide, but a lack of knowledge about their help-seeking behaviour, patient pathways, systematic follow-up, coordination between services, and long-term outcomes. We need more longitudinal observational studies of health service use and patient trajectories for people bereaved by suicide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silje L. Kaspersen
- Department of Health Research, SINTEF Digital, Pb. 4760 Torgarden, 7465 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Jorid Kalseth
- Department of Health Research, SINTEF Digital, Pb. 4760 Torgarden, 7465 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Kim Stene-Larsen
- Department of Mental Health and Suicide, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, 0456 Oslo, Norway
| | - Anne Reneflot
- Department of Mental Health and Suicide, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, 0456 Oslo, Norway
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14
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Knipe D, Padmanathan P, Newton-Howes G, Chan LF, Kapur N. Suicide and self-harm. Lancet 2022; 399:1903-1916. [PMID: 35512727 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(22)00173-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Suicide and self-harm are major health and societal issues worldwide, but the greatest burden of both behaviours occurs in low-income and middle-income countries. Although rates of suicide are higher in male than in female individuals, self-harm is more common in female individuals. Rather than having a single cause, suicide and self-harm are the result of a complex interplay of several factors that occur throughout the life course, and vary by gender, age, ethnicity, and geography. Several clinical and public health interventions show promise, although our understanding of their effectiveness has largely originated from high-income countries. Attempting to predict suicide is unlikely to be helpful. Intervention and prevention must include both a clinical and community focus, and every health professional has a crucial part to play.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duleeka Knipe
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; South Asian Clinical Toxicology Research Collaboration, Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Kandy, Sri Lanka.
| | - Prianka Padmanathan
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | | | - Lai Fong Chan
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, National University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nav Kapur
- Centre for Mental Health and Safety, University of Manchester, Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK; National Institute for Health Research Greater Manchester Patient Safety Translational Research Centre, University of Manchester, Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK; Greater Manchester Mental Health National Health Service Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
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15
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Griffin E, O’Connell S, Ruane-McAteer E, Corcoran P, Arensman E. Psychosocial Outcomes of Individuals Attending a Suicide Bereavement Peer Support Group: A Follow-Up Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19074076. [PMID: 35409760 PMCID: PMC8998629 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19074076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Individuals bereaved by suicide represent an important group in terms of postvention. While peer support groups are often accessed by those bereaved, few studies have examined their impact in terms of physical and mental health wellbeing. The aim of this study was to examine psychosocial outcomes of individuals attending suicide bereavement peer support groups in Ireland. Between August 2020 and June 2021, all members were invited to complete a survey, with new members also surveyed at three- and six-month follow-up, to examine changes in wellbeing, depressive symptoms and grief reactions. Results were analyzed using descriptive statistics and mixed linear regression models. The 75 participants were mostly female, with lower levels of overall wellbeing and a higher prevalence of depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation than the general population. Participants also reported high levels of social adjustment difficulties and grief reactions, which were more pronounced for those more recently bereaved. At follow-up (n = 28), a significant improvement in wellbeing and a reduction in grief reactions were found, adjusting for time since bereavement. Participants identified the groups as creating a safe space and providing a sense of belonging and hope. Notwithstanding the small number of participants at follow-up, these findings underline the enduring mental health challenges for those bereaved by suicide and provide further evidence for the role of peer support in postvention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eve Griffin
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, T12 XF62 Cork, Ireland; (S.O.); (E.R.-M.); (E.A.)
- National Suicide Research Foundation, T12 XF62 Cork, Ireland;
- Correspondence:
| | - Selena O’Connell
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, T12 XF62 Cork, Ireland; (S.O.); (E.R.-M.); (E.A.)
- National Suicide Research Foundation, T12 XF62 Cork, Ireland;
| | - Eimear Ruane-McAteer
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, T12 XF62 Cork, Ireland; (S.O.); (E.R.-M.); (E.A.)
| | - Paul Corcoran
- National Suicide Research Foundation, T12 XF62 Cork, Ireland;
| | - Ella Arensman
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, T12 XF62 Cork, Ireland; (S.O.); (E.R.-M.); (E.A.)
- National Suicide Research Foundation, T12 XF62 Cork, Ireland;
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16
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Jang J, Park SY, Kim YY, Kim EJ, Lee G, Seo J, Na EJ, Park JY, Jeon HJ. Risks of suicide among family members of suicide victims: A nationwide sample of South Korea. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:995834. [PMID: 36311502 PMCID: PMC9614235 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.995834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Identifying the risks of completed suicide in suicide survivors is essential for policies supporting family members of suicide victims. We aimed to determine the suicide risk of suicide survivors and identify the number of suicides per 100,000 population of suicide survivors, bereaved families of traffic accident victims, and bereaved families with non-suicide deaths. METHODS This was a nationwide population-based cohort study in South Korea. The data were taken from the Korean National Health Insurance and Korea National Statistical Office between January 2008 and December 2017. The relationship between the decedent and the bereaved family was identified using the family database of the National Health Insurance Data. Age and gender were randomly matched 1:1 among 133,386 suicide deaths and non-suicide deaths. A proportional hazard model regression analysis was conducted after confirming the cumulative hazard using Kaplan-Meier curves to obtain the hazard ratio (HR) of completed suicide in suicide survivors. RESULTS Using 423,331 bereaved families of suicide victims and 420,978 bereaved families of non-suicide deaths as the control group, HR of completed suicide in suicidal survivors was found to be 2.755 [95% confidence limit (CL): 2.550-2.977]. HR for wives committing suicide after husbands' suicide was 5.096 (95% CL: 3.982-6.522), which was the highest HR among all relationships with suicide decedents. The average duration from suicide death to suicide of family members was 25.4 months. Among suicide survivors, the number of suicides per 100,000 people was 586, thrice that of people in bereaved families of traffic accident victims and in bereaved families of non-suicide deaths. CONCLUSION The risk of completed suicide was three times higher in suicide survivors than in bereaved families with non-suicide deaths, and it was highest in wives of suicide decedents. Thus, socio-environmental interventions for suicidal survivors must be expanded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jihoon Jang
- Department of Psychiatry, Depression Center, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.,Korea Psychological Autopsy Center, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Psychiatry, Keyo Hospital, Uiwang, South Korea
| | - Seong Yong Park
- Department of Big Data Management, National Health Insurance Service, Wonju, South Korea.,Department of Health Administration, Yonsei University Graduate School, Wonju, South Korea
| | - Yeon Yong Kim
- Department of Big Data Management, National Health Insurance Service, Wonju, South Korea
| | - Eun Ji Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Depression Center, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.,Korea Psychological Autopsy Center, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Gusang Lee
- Korea Psychological Autopsy Center, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jihye Seo
- Korea Psychological Autopsy Center, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Eun Jin Na
- Department of Psychiatry, Depression Center, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.,Korea Psychological Autopsy Center, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Psychiatry, Seoul Medical Center, Seoul, South Korea
| | | | - Hong Jin Jeon
- Department of Psychiatry, Depression Center, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.,Korea Psychological Autopsy Center, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Samsung Advanced Institute for Health Sciences and Technology, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Medical Device Management and Research, Samsung Advanced Institute for Health Sciences and Technology, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Clinical Research Design and Evaluation, Samsung Advanced Institute for Health Sciences and Technology, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, South Korea
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17
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Spirituality and Religiosity during Suicide Bereavement: A Qualitative Systematic Review. RELIGIONS 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/rel12090766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
A loved one’s loss to suicide can be a traumatic experience and trigger a difficult grief process, identity changes, a loss of the sense of meaning and a spiritual crisis. Spirituality and/or religiosity (S/R) can be both an important resource and a source of stigmatisation during suicide bereavement. This study aims to synthesise the extant findings about S/R during suicide bereavement in qualitative studies. After an exhaustive selection of articles, the current review utilised a total of 484 citations and seven studies. A thematic synthesis yielded five major themes related to S/R during suicide bereavement: the need to be helped by the religious community without being judged; S/R-related experience of the deceased as a figure who continues to exist; S/R experienced without a conscious choice; conscious reach towards S/R themes; not relating to S/R during suicide bereavement. These findings indicate that the role of S/R during suicide bereavement is complex and varies from providing help to serving as a source of suffering. Hence, practitioners and religious communities should be mindful of the S/R themes during suicide bereavement.
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18
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An evolutionary approach to grief-related rumination: Construction and validation of the Bereavement Analytical Rumination Questionnaire. EVOL HUM BEHAV 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.evolhumbehav.2021.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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19
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Leaune E, Lestienne L, Grandgenèvre P, Morgiève M, Vaiva G, Vieux M, Chalancon B, Laplace N, Haesebaert J, Poulet E. Development of an Online Resource for People Bereaved by Suicide: A Mixed-Method User-Centered Study Protocol. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:770154. [PMID: 34992555 PMCID: PMC8724422 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.770154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Suicide bereavement is known to be highly distressing and is frequently associated with mental health problems. Despite high-level of need regarding mental and physical health, people bereaved by suicide display low level of help-seeking and perceived support in the aftermath of the loss. The lack of accessibility and reliability of face-to-face counseling resources is notably reported by suicide survivors. Online resources can enhance early access to help and support for people bereaved by suicide. The primary objective of the study is to design and implement an innovative and adaptive online resource for people bereaved by suicide according to their needs and expectation regarding online solutions dedicated to suicide bereavement. Methods: The ESPOIR2S study is a mixed-method user-centered study. ESPOIR2S seeks to build the resource from the perspectives and needs of both people bereaved by suicide and professionals or volunteers working in the field of postvention. The Information System Research (ISR) Framework is used to guide the design of the study through a 3-step research cycle. The structure of the ESPOIR2S study relies on a simultaneous collection of qualitative and quantitative data which will be collected and analyzed during (a) the Relevance cycle through an online questionnaire and focus groups; (b) the Design cycle through focus groups; and (c) and the Rigor cycle through an online questionnaire and semi-structured interviews. The user-centeredness will be ensured by the active participation of people bereaved by suicide, members of associations for bereaved people and professionals of postvention. Discussion: The mixed-method and user-centered design of the ESPOIR2S study will offer an in-depth collection of the needs and expectation of suicide survivors regarding online resources. Through the implementation of an adaptive online solution, we aim to enhance the access to help and support for suicide survivors which are highly correlated with well-being and recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edouard Leaune
- Centre Hospitalier Le Vinatier, Bron, France.,INSERM, U1028, CNRS, UMR5292, Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, Psychiatric Disorders: from Resistance to Response - PSYR2 Team, Lyon, France.,Groupement d'étude et de prévention du suicide, Saint-Benoît, France
| | | | - Pierre Grandgenèvre
- Groupement d'étude et de prévention du suicide, Saint-Benoît, France.,Univ. Lille, INSERM, CHU Lille, U1172 - LilNCog - Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, Lille, France
| | - Margot Morgiève
- Groupement d'étude et de prévention du suicide, Saint-Benoît, France.,Centre de Recherche Médecine, Sciences, Santé, Santé Mentale, Société (Cermes3), UMR CNRS 8211, Unité INSERM 988-EHESS-Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France
| | - Guillaume Vaiva
- Groupement d'étude et de prévention du suicide, Saint-Benoît, France.,Univ. Lille, INSERM, CHU Lille, U1172 - LilNCog - Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, Lille, France.,Centre National de Ressources & Résilience pour les Psychotraumatismes (Cn2r Lille Paris), Lille, France
| | | | | | | | - Julie Haesebaert
- EA 7425, HESPER Health Services and Performance Research-Claude Bernard Lyon 1 University, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Emmanuel Poulet
- Centre Hospitalier Le Vinatier, Bron, France.,INSERM, U1028, CNRS, UMR5292, Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, Psychiatric Disorders: from Resistance to Response - PSYR2 Team, Lyon, France.,Groupement d'étude et de prévention du suicide, Saint-Benoît, France.,Department of Emergency Psychiatry, University Hospital Edouard Herriot, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
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20
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Petersen SH, Kalseth J, Kaspersen SL. What is known about the health service use and follow-up of immediate family members bereaved by suicide? Scoping review protocol. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e041978. [PMID: 33293324 PMCID: PMC7722818 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-041978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Suicide remains a major public health issue around the world. People bereaved by suicide are a vulnerable group who are at considerable risk of developing mental and physical health problems, such as complicated grief, post-traumatic stress disorder or cardiovascular disease. Many unanswered questions remain, in particular, in terms of their use of healthcare services. This protocol describes how we aim to systematically scope the existing literature on the professional follow-up and health service use by families bereaved by suicide. The scoping review will help to identify research gaps in the literature and aid in the planning and commission of future research. We will provide a summary of research findings. METHODS AND ANALYSIS We will use the scoping review framework provided by the Joanna Briggs Institute. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews will be used as a guide for reporting our results. We plan to conduct an extensive literature search using relevant health-related databases (MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO and CINAHL) and Web of Science. Two independent reviewers will screen the articles in a two-stage process: (1) titles and abstracts and (2) full-text documents. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This scoping review will identify and consider only previously published research. Hence, no ethical approval is considered necessary. We will disseminate the results in a scientific journal and at conferences, as well as through user organisations for people bereaved by suicide and social media.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jorid Kalseth
- Department of Health Research, SINTEF, Trondheim, Norway
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21
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Ligier F, Rassy J, Fortin G, van Haaster I, Doyon C, Brouillard C, Séguin M, Lesage A. Being pro-active in meeting the needs of suicide-bereaved survivors: results from a systematic audit in Montréal. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:1534. [PMID: 33036601 PMCID: PMC7547412 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-09636-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Suicide is a major public health concern. In 2017, the suicide rate in Canada was 11 per 100,000 inhabitants. According to literature, 1 in 5 people have experienced a death by suicide during their lifetime. The aim of this study was to describe the met and unmet needs of suicide-bereaved survivors and to provide postvention recommendations. METHODS Further to an exploratory mixed-method audit of 39 suicides that occurred in Montreal (Canada) in 2016, suicide-bereaved survivors (n = 29) participated in semi-structured interviews and completed instruments to discuss and assess potential pathological grief, depression (PHQ-9), and anxiety (GAD-7), as well as health and social services utilization. A panel then reviewed each case and provided recommendations. The mean age of participants was 57.7 years and 23 were women. RESULTS Although help was offered initially, in most cases by a health professional or service provider (16/29), 22 survivors would have liked to be contacted by telephone in the first 2 months post suicide. Four categories of individual unmet needs (medical/pharmacological, information, support, and outreach) and one collective unmet need (suicide pre/postvention training and delivery) emerged. CONCLUSIONS Although Quebec provincial services have been developed and offered to suicide-bereaved survivors in the past decade, many dwindled over time and none has been applied systematically. Recommendations for different stakeholders (Ministry of Health and Social Services, coroners, NGOs, and representatives of suicide-bereaved survivors) outlined in this study could be an interesting first step to help develop a suicide pre/postvention strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabienne Ligier
- Centre Psychothérapique de Nancy, Pôle Universitaire de Psychiatrie de l'Enfant et de l'Adolescent, 1 rue du Dr Archambault, F-54520, Laxou, France. .,EA 4360 APEMAC, Université de Lorraine, Vandoeuvre-lès-Nancy, France.
| | - Jessica Rassy
- School of Nursing, Université de Sherbrooke, Longueuil, Canada.,Centre de recherche de l'Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
| | - Gabrielle Fortin
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
| | - Ian van Haaster
- CIUSSS de l'Est de l'Ile de Montréal, CLSC St-Michel, Montreal, Canada
| | - Claude Doyon
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
| | - Charlie Brouillard
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
| | - Monique Séguin
- Department of Psychoeducation and Psychology, Université du Québec en Outaouais, Gatineau, Canada.,Centre intégré de santé et service social de l'Outaouais (CISSSO), Outaouais, Quebec, Canada
| | - Alain Lesage
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montreal, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, Université de Montréal, Quebec, Canada
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22
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Wainwright V, Cordingley L, Chew-Graham CA, Kapur N, Shaw J, Smith S, McGale B, McDonnell S. Experiences of support from primary care and perceived needs of parents bereaved by suicide: a qualitative study. Br J Gen Pract 2020; 70:e102-e110. [PMID: 31932295 PMCID: PMC6960001 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp20x707849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People bereaved by suicide are a vulnerable group, also at risk of dying by suicide. The importance of postvention support (intervention after suicide) has recently been highlighted; however, little is known about the support needs of parents bereaved by suicide in the UK, and the role played by general practice. AIM To explore the perspectives, experiences, and support needs of parents bereaved by suicide. DESIGN AND SETTING This was a qualitative study, with semi-structured interviews conducted between 2012 and 2014 in the north of England and the Midlands, with parents bereaved by their son or daughter's suicide. METHOD Interviews explored parents' experiences of suicide bereavement following the death of their son or daughter, with a focus on their experiences of support from primary care. Interviews were analysed thematically using constant comparison. RESULTS Twenty-three interviews were conducted. Three themes were identified from the data: the importance of not feeling alone; perceived barriers to accessing support; and the need for signposting for additional support. Some parents reported having experienced good support from their general practice; others described a number of barriers to accessing help, including triage processes. Primary care was considered to be an important avenue of support but GPs were often perceived as uncertain how to respond. The need for information, signposting to avenues of support, and the helpfulness of group support were also highlighted. CONCLUSION Parents believed it was important that people working in general practice have an awareness of suicide bereavement and understanding of their needs, including knowledge of where to direct people for further support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verity Wainwright
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester
| | - Lis Cordingley
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester
| | - Carolyn A Chew-Graham
- Midlands Partnership NHS Foundation Trust; NIHR Applied Research Collaboration (ARC), West Midlands; School of Primary, Community and Social Care, Keele University, Keele, Staffordshire
| | - Nav Kapur
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester; Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust; NIHR Patient Safety Translational Research Centre
| | - Jenny Shaw
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester; Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust
| | | | - Barry McGale
- Suicide Bereavement UK; director, National Suicide Research Foundation Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; patron, Support After Suicide Partnership, Suicide Bereavement UK, Manchester
| | - Sharon McDonnell
- Suicide Bereavement UK; honorary research fellow, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester
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Spillane A, Matvienko-Sikar K, Larkin C, Arensman E. How do people experience a family member's high-risk self-harm? An interpretative phenomenological analysis. Arch Suicide Res 2020; 24:280-302. [PMID: 30734665 DOI: 10.1080/13811118.2019.1574248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Few studies have explored the impact self-harm has on family members, with none specifically focusing on physical and psychosomatic responses following a family member's high-risk self-harm Therefore, this study aims to explore the health impact of experiencing a family member's high-risk self-harm. Participants represented family members of consecutive cases of self-harm, who were recruited from the Suicide Support and Information System - A Case-Control Study (SSIS-ACE). Qualitative interviews were conducted with 9 participants whose family member presented to a large tertiary hospital in Ireland with high-risk self-harm. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was conducted. Qualitative findings indicated 4 superordinate themes in relation to experiences following a family member's presentation to hospital following an episode of high-risk self-harm (1) implications for health and well-being; (2) process of meaning-making; (3) feelings of responsibility and (4) challenges with support network. Participants consistently experienced adverse health impacts including vomiting, hypertension, and depression. The findings imply that caring for their own and their family members' well-being, together with challenges with accessing health services underscores the importance of family members being proactively contacted by healthcare professionals to alleviate these detrimental health effects.
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24
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Spillane A, Matvienko-Sikar K, Larkin C, Corcoran P, Arensman E. How suicide-bereaved family members experience the inquest process: a qualitative study using thematic analysis. Int J Qual Stud Health Well-being 2019; 14:1563430. [PMID: 30693845 PMCID: PMC6352946 DOI: 10.1080/17482631.2018.1563430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Suicide bereavement confers unique risk and distress. In several countries, bereaved family members are called on to attend an inquest, an official public inquiry into deaths caused by external factors. The current study aimed to explore how suicide-bereaved family members (n = 18) experienced the inquest process, through qualitative semi-structured interviews. METHOD Participants were identified via coroner's records and had previously taken part in a case-control study. RESULTS Qualitative findings indicated four overall themes with respect to family members' experiences of the inquest process: "inquest as fearfully unknown", "structural processes of the inquest", "enduring public and private pain to obtain answers" and "gaining answers and making sense". Most family members experienced distress and fear as a result of several elements of the inquest process. Some participants had positive experiences but these did not outweigh the distress experienced by the majority of family members regarding their overall experience of the inquest process. CONCLUSIONS Key recommendations include informing family members of the main aspects and purpose of the inquest process beforehand, adapting the process to maximise the privacy and comfort of the bereaved relatives, and restricting graphic evidence being heard, where possible, to minimise distress experienced by family members.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ailbhe Spillane
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- National Suicide Research Foundation, Cork, Ireland
| | | | - Celine Larkin
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Paul Corcoran
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- National Suicide Research Foundation, Cork, Ireland
| | - Ella Arensman
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- National Suicide Research Foundation, Cork, Ireland
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Titlestad KB, Lindeman SK, Lund H, Dyregrov K. How do family members experience drug death bereavement? A systematic review of the literature. DEATH STUDIES 2019; 45:508-521. [PMID: 31390307 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2019.1649085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Despite high rates of drug-related deaths (DRDs), drug-related bereavement has been sparsely investigated. A systematic literature search for qualitative and quantitative studies was conducted. Studies on bereaved DRD family members and systems influencing bereavement were eligible for inclusion. Eight studies were included. Three themes emerged from the thematic analysis (Emotional Roller Coaster, Lack of Understanding by the Social World, and Meaning Making) describing an emotional and existential overload, stigmatization and lack of understanding and help from support systems. The results also shed light on life after the loss. Directions for further research were subsequently outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristine Berg Titlestad
- Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, Bergen, Norway
| | - Sari Kaarina Lindeman
- Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, Bergen, Norway
| | - Hans Lund
- The Center for Evidence-Based Practice, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, Bergen, Norway
| | - Kari Dyregrov
- Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, Bergen, Norway
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Spillane A, Matvienko-Sikar K, Larkin C, Corcoran P, Arensman E. What are the physical and psychological health effects of suicide bereavement on family members? An observational and interview mixed-methods study in Ireland. BMJ Open 2018; 8:e019472. [PMID: 29331974 PMCID: PMC5781012 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-019472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Research focussing on the impact of suicide bereavement on family members' physical and psychological health is scarce. The aim of this study was to examine how family members have been physically and psychologically affected following suicide bereavement. A secondary objective of the study was to describe the needs of family members bereaved by suicide. DESIGN A mixed-methods study was conducted, using qualitative semistructured interviews and additional quantitative self-report measures of depression, anxiety and stress (DASS-21). SETTING Consecutive suicide cases and next-of-kin were identified by examining coroner's records in Cork City and County, Ireland from October 2014 to May 2016. PARTICIPANTS Eighteen family members bereaved by suicide took part in a qualitative interview. They were recruited from the Suicide Support and Information System: A Case-Control Study (SSIS-ACE), where family members bereaved by suicide (n=33) completed structured measures of their well-being. RESULTS Qualitative findings indicated three superordinate themes in relation to experiences following suicide bereavement: (1) co-occurrence of grief and health reactions; (2) disparity in supports after suicide and (3) reconstructing life after deceased's suicide. Initial feelings of guilt, blame, shame and anger often manifested in enduring physical, psychological and psychosomatic difficulties. Support needs were diverse and were often related to the availability or absence of informal support by family or friends. Quantitative results indicated that the proportion of respondents above the DASS-21 cut-offs respectively were 24% for depression, 18% for anxiety and 27% for stress. CONCLUSIONS Healthcare professionals' awareness of the adverse physical and psychosomatic health difficulties experienced by family members bereaved by suicide is essential. Proactively facilitating support for this group could help to reduce the negative health sequelae. The effects of suicide bereavement are wide-ranging, including high levels of stress, depression, anxiety and physical health difficulties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ailbhe Spillane
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- National Suicide Research Foundation, Cork, Ireland
| | | | - Celine Larkin
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Paul Corcoran
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- National Suicide Research Foundation, Cork, Ireland
| | - Ella Arensman
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- National Suicide Research Foundation, Cork, Ireland
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