1
|
Visser V, Tretheway R. A Longitudinal Study of the Impact of a Suicide Bereavement Service on People Bereaved by Suicide. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2023:302228231188751. [PMID: 37423761 DOI: 10.1177/00302228231188751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Whilst the body of research on the impacts of suicide bereavement interventions continues to grow, there is little understanding of the impact over time. This study measured changes in suicidality, levels of loneliness and grief reactions over time between those receiving support from a community-based suicide bereavement service (StandBy) compared with those that did not receive this support. Data were collected through an online survey with participation at baseline being varying times post loss, and three-months post-baseline (StandBy n = 174, Comparison n = 322). Statistical analysis included linear mixed-effects modelling for repeated measures. Results were consistent with earlier studies showing the positive impact of StandBy on participants' grief responses, loneliness and suicidality, specifically within the first 12 months after their loss. However, these outcomes were not retained over time, with the exception of suicidality. Further longitudinal studies consisting of more than two time-points and a greater period between time-points is warranted.
Collapse
|
2
|
Scocco P, Idotta C, Mareschi T, Preti A. Do interpersonal events buffer or worsen depressive and grief related symptoms in people bereaved through suicide? DEATH STUDIES 2020; 46:1344-1353. [PMID: 33287686 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2020.1855608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Life events can heighten emotional suffering related to the loss of a close relative or friend by suicide, while supportive social relationships may promote coping. We investigated the impact of stressful events and perceived social support on depressive and grief symptoms in 378 help-seeking Italians bereaved through suicide. While we did not observe a significant effect of interpersonal stressors, perceived social support did have a buffering role on the intensity of depressive symptoms but not of grief-related suffering. Focusing on expanding and capitalizing on clients' perceived social networks could strengthen postvention programs. Further research on the role of interpersonal factors is needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Scocco
- SOPROXI Onlus, Padova, Italy
- Mental Health Department, Padova, Italy
| | | | - Tea Mareschi
- Institute for Psychosocial Prevention, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Scocco P, Zerbinati L, Preti A, Ferrari A, Totaro S. Mindfulness-based weekend retreats for people bereaved by suicide (Panta Rhei): A pilot feasibility study. Psychol Psychother 2019; 92:39-56. [PMID: 29512287 DOI: 10.1111/papt.12175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2017] [Revised: 01/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study investigates whether a programme of mindfulness-based weekend retreats (Panta Rhei) is able to improve mood states, mindfulness qualities, and self-compassion in family members and friends of suicide victims (suicide survivors). DESIGN Longitudinal prospective study. METHODS Sixty-one suicide survivors participated in a mindful-self-compassion retreat. The Five-Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire, the Profile of Mood States (POMS), and the Self-Compassion Scale were administered 4-6 days before and after the retreat. RESULTS A significant reduction in all dimensions of the POMS (except Vigor-Activity) and lower levels of overidentification were observed after the retreat. CONCLUSIONS Although further research is warranted, this study highlights the potential beneficial effect of brief mindfulness-based weekend retreats on the well-being of suicide survivors. PRACTITIONER POINTS Mindfulness-based weekend retreats seem to be effective in alleviating the psychological distress of suicide survivors in the short term. The benefit may depend on standard mindfulness practices and on more tailored interventions aimed at promoting acceptance of loss, forgiveness and rage management, and thus reducing rumination. Since there is no established treatment for this population, this type of intervention, which seems feasible and well accepted by participants, paves the way for future research in this area.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Scocco
- Mental Health Center, ULSS 6 Euganea, Padova, Italy
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
A Qualitative Examination of Continuing Bonds through Spiritual Experiences in Individuals Bereaved by Suicide. RELIGIONS 2018. [DOI: 10.3390/rel9080248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Suicide is a public health problem worldwide, and spiritual experiences may be important positive experiences or coping mechanisms for difficulties associated with surviving a suicide loss. Studies have found that continuing bonds through spiritual experiences are common among individuals bereaved by suicide. However, the literature lacks depth in understanding these experiences, such as sense of presence. Aims: The aim of this study was to qualitatively examine descriptions of continuing bonds through spiritual experiences after death by suicide. Method: A total of 1301 individuals bereaved by suicide provided 2443 free responses about their spiritual experiences based on four different prompts, which were analyzed using an inductive approach. Results: Nine common themes were identified, selected for interest, and reported: (1) a helpful sense of comfort; (2) a helpful sense of connection with the deceased; (3) intense sadness evoked by the spiritual experiences; (4) confusion regarding the spiritual experiences; (5) negative reminders of the deceased or negative meanings of spiritual experiences; (6) evidence of an afterlife; (7) general importance of the spiritual experiences’ meaning; (8) impact of and on religious beliefs; and (9) others’ responses to disclosure of suicide or spiritual experiences. Conclusion: For the overwhelming majority of participants, spiritual experiences such as a sense of presence have deep meaning and are often regarded as a positive source of healing and transformation after a suicide death.
Collapse
|
5
|
Harrington-LaMorie J, Jordan JR, Ruocco K, Cerel J. Surviving families of military suicide loss: Exploring postvention peer support. DEATH STUDIES 2018; 42:143-154. [PMID: 29300139 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2017.1370789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The United States military began to experience a steady increase in suicide rates across all service branches at the inception of the wars in Afghanistan (2001) and Iraq (2003). As the number of suicide deaths increased, so did the number of affected survivors who seek postvention support. Unique issues that accompany suicide death may expose survivors to a more distressing and complicated grief process. Peer support has clinically been observed to be widely utilized by suicide loss survivors. This article explores unique issues accompanying military suicide loss, potential benefits of postvention peer-based support, clinical considerations, and future directions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jill Harrington-LaMorie
- a School of Social Policy and Practice , University of Pennsylvania , Philadelphia , PA , USA
| | - John R Jordan
- b Family Loss Project, Private Practice , Pawtucket , RI , USA
| | - Kim Ruocco
- c Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors , Arlington , VA , USA
| | - Julie Cerel
- d College of Social Work , University of Kentucky , Lexington , KY , USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Bailey E, Krysinska K, O'Dea B, Robinson J. Internet Forums for Suicide Bereavement. CRISIS 2017; 38:393-402. [DOI: 10.1027/0227-5910/a000471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Abstract. Background: Bereavement by suicide is associated with a number of consequences including poor mental health outcomes and increased suicide risk. Despite this, the bereaved by suicide may be reluctant to seek help from friends, family, and professionals. Internet forums and social networking sites are a popular avenue of support for the bereaved, but to date there is a lack of research into their use and efficacy. Aims: To survey users of suicide bereavement Internet forums and Facebook groups regarding their help-seeking behaviors, use of forums, and perceived benefits and limitations of such use. Method: This study employed a cross-sectional design in which users of suicide bereavement Internet forums and Facebook groups completed an anonymous online survey. Results: Participants were 222 users of suicide bereavement Internet forums. Most participants (93.2%) had sought face-to-face help from sources other than Internet forums, but were more likely to seek help in the near future from informal rather than formal sources. Forums were perceived as highly beneficial and there were few limitations. Limitations: The generalizability of these results to other internet forums may be limited. Additionally, we were not able to examine differences between forums in terms of quality or user-reported efficacy. Finally, the data reflects the subjective views of forum users, which may differ from the views of moderators or experts. Conclusion: Internet forums, including Facebook groups, appear to be a useful adjunct to face-to-face help-seeking for supporting those who have been bereaved by suicide.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eleanor Bailey
- Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Karolina Krysinska
- School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Bridianne O'Dea
- Black Dog Institute, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jo Robinson
- Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Song IH, Kwon SW, Kim JE. Association between suicidal ideation and exposure to suicide in social relationships among family, friend, and acquaintance survivors in South Korea. Suicide Life Threat Behav 2015; 45:376-90. [PMID: 25845314 DOI: 10.1111/sltb.12158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2014] [Accepted: 01/05/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to suicide in social relationships may be associated with suicidal ideation among survivors. In South Korea, which is known for having the highest suicide rate among OECD countries, exposure to suicide in social relationships can have serious consequences as social relationships are greatly emphasized in the society. The purpose of this study was to examine the association between survivors' suicidal ideation and their exposure to suicide in close relationships. Data collected through a telephone survey of a total of 1,000 men and women selected from across the nation using a stratified sampling method were analyzed. The results show that individuals who lost a family member, friend, or acquaintance in their lifetime are 4.5 times, 3.7 times, 2.2 times, respectively, more likely to have suicidal ideation in the past year compared to those without such experience. These findings suggest that special intervention for suicide survivors should be considered for those who experience suicide in close relationships.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- In Han Song
- Graduate School of Social Welfare, Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Se Won Kwon
- Graduate School of Social Welfare, Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ji Eun Kim
- Graduate School of Social Welfare, Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Pompili M, Shrivastava A, Serafini G, Innamorati M, Milelli M, Erbuto D, Ricci F, Lamis DA, Scocco P, Amore M, Lester D, Girardi P. Bereavement after the suicide of a significant other. Indian J Psychiatry 2013; 55:256-63. [PMID: 24082246 PMCID: PMC3777347 DOI: 10.4103/0019-5545.117145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT It is estimated that approximately one in four people know someone who has taken their own life and that one suicide death leaves six or more suicide survivors. AIMS The aim of this paper was to review the literature regarding the association between suicide and bereavement, focusing also on the supportive and therapeutic resources available for survivors. MATERIALS AND METHODS Careful MedLine and PsycINFO searches for the period 1980-2013. RESULTS The review of the literature indicates that emotional turmoil in suicide survivors may last a long time and, in some cases, may end with their own suicide. CONCLUSION Future research should evaluate the efficacy of professional treatments and of support groups targeting suicide survivors. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS It is crucial to understand the bereavement process after the suicide of a significant other in order to provide proper care, reduce stigma, and improve the outcomes of related psychiatric conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Pompili
- Department of Neurosciences, Mental Health and Sensory Functions, Suicide Prevention Center, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Tal Young I, Iglewicz A, Glorioso D, Lanouette N, Seay K, Ilapakurti M, Zisook S. Suicide bereavement and complicated grief. DIALOGUES IN CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCE 2012. [PMID: 22754290 PMCID: PMC3384446 DOI: 10.31887/dcns.2012.14.2/iyoung] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Losing a loved to suicide is one is one of life's most painful experiences. The feelings of loss, sadness, and loneliness experienced after any death of a loved one are often magnified in suicide survivors by feelings of quilt, confusion, rejection, shame, anger, and the effects of stigma and trauma. Furthermore, survivors of suicide loss are at higher risk of developing major depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and suicidal behaviors, as well as a prolonged form of grief called complicated grief. Added to the burden is the substantial stigma, which can keep survivors away from much needed support and healing resources. Thus, survivors may require unique supportive measures and targeted treatment to cope with their loss. After a brief description of the epidemiology and circumstances of suicide, we review the current state of research on suicide bereavement, complicated grief in suicide survivors, and grief treatment for survivors of suicide.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ilanit Tal Young
- Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Pompili M, Galeandro PM, Lester D, Tatarelli R. Suicidal Behavior in Surviving Co-Twins. Twin Res Hum Genet 2012. [DOI: 10.1375/twin.9.5.642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
AbstractRecent research has provided strong support for the existence of a familial risk for suicide, and efforts have been made to separate genetic from enviromental risk factors. Twin studies have played a major role in the identification of genetic factors, and the results indicate that the concordance rate for suicide is higher in identical than in fraternal twins (Baldessarini & Hennen, 2004). Moreover, Segal and Roy (1995) reported a significantly higher frequency of nonfatal suicidal attempts by monozygotic (MZ) than by dyzygotic (DZ) twins whose co-twins had committed suicide. However, doubts remain as to whether the increased risk of suicide in MZ twins is a response to the intense grief over the loss of a close relative, or whether a common genotype is associated with suicidal behavior. Sudden loss, which may carry a stigma in the case of a suicide, has been linked to increased persistent emotional stress and physiological changes (Epstein, 1993; Martin & Dean, 1993). A number of researchers have reported greater suicidal ideation among bereaved MZ twins as compared to DZ twins, suggesting that a loss due to suicide may increase the risk of suicidal behavior in the surviving co-twin (Segal & Bouchard, 1993; Segal & Roy, 1995; Segal et al., 1995). The aim of the present article is to address the issue of the intense grief experienced by twins after the co-twin suicide.
Collapse
|
11
|
Andriessen K, Krysinska K. Essential questions on suicide bereavement and postvention. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2011; 9:24-32. [PMID: 22470275 PMCID: PMC3315078 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph9010024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2011] [Revised: 12/12/2011] [Accepted: 12/21/2011] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
During the past decades public and research interest in postvention, i.e., support for families and communities after a suicide, has increased. However, the postvention field is still facing a number of important challenges and questions. This article aims to discuss a series of essential issues on suicide bereavement and postvention, regarding the current state of the art and future developments. Who is a suicide survivor and how many suicide survivors are there? Is suicide bereavement different from other types of bereavement? What are the needs of suicide survivors and what is postvention from a clinical perspective and from a public health perspective? Can postvention be prevention? With this last question, the article concludes with a series of recommendations in order to strengthen the potential of postvention as prevention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karl Andriessen
- Suicide Prevention Program of the Flemish Community Mental Health Centres, 9000 Gent, Belgium
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; ; Tel.: +32-9-233-5099
| | - Karolina Krysinska
- Unit for Clinical Psychology Research, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Catholic University Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium;
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Austin AE, van den Heuvel C, Byard RW. Cluster Hanging Suicides in the Young in South Australia. J Forensic Sci 2011; 56:1528-30. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1556-4029.2011.01840.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Amy E. Austin
- Discipline of Anatomy and Pathology, The University of Adelaide, Frome Rd, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Corinna van den Heuvel
- Discipline of Anatomy and Pathology, The University of Adelaide, Frome Rd, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Roger W. Byard
- Discipline of Anatomy and Pathology, The University of Adelaide, Frome Rd, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
- Forensic Science SA, 21 Divett Place, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Affiliation(s)
- Fan-Ko Sun
- Department of Nursing, I-Shou University, Taiwan, ROC.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Abstract
Background. There has been recent interest in postvention activities which involve provision of support to family members and others affected by a suicide death. Aims. To review the current status of postvention support, including definitions used and the objectives and effectiveness of support activities for people bereaved by suicide. Methods. Selected controlled studies of support activities and programs are reviewed with narrative comment. Results. Not applicable. Conclusions. Effective postvention support can be viewed as contributing toward suicide prevention among those people who are bereaved by suicide. Further development of support programs is needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karl Andriessen
- Suicide Prevention Project of the Flemish Mental Health Centers, Gent, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Pompili M, Lester D, De Pisa E, Del Casale A, Tatarelli R, Girardi P. Surviving the suicides of significant others: a case study. CRISIS 2008; 29:45-8. [PMID: 18389645 DOI: 10.1027/0227-5910.29.1.45] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Psychological pain has been reported to be major contributing factor for completed suicide, and classical suicidology based its wisdom on this construct. In this paper we report the case of a patient whose family experienced a high number of suicides apparently due to an escalation of psychological pain in the family members after the successive suicides. We also briefly discuss the problem of helping survivors after the suicide of loved one.
Collapse
|
16
|
Wong PWC, Chan WSC, Beh PSL. What can we do to help and understand survivors of suicide in Hong Kong? CRISIS 2008; 28:183-9. [PMID: 18265738 DOI: 10.1027/0227-5910.28.4.183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Survivors of suicide or people bereaved by suicide are underresearched and underserviced. This report contains preliminary data, collected from a psychological autopsy study, which examines the characteristics of suicide survivors in Hong Kong. This paper considers the preliminary data currently available and attempts to suggest a way forward toward understanding and help for this underrecognized group of individuals in Hong Kong.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul W C Wong
- Centre for Suicide Research and Prevention, University of Hong Kong, SAR.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
MacNeil MS. An Epidemiologic Study of Aboriginal Adolescent Risk in Canada: The Meaning of Suicide. JOURNAL OF CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHIATRIC NURSING 2008; 21:3-12. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1744-6171.2008.00117.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|