Abstract
BACKGROUND: The prevention of suicide is a key aim for health care authorities and society in general and family members have a principal role in caring for suicidal people. However, the support needs of these essential family carers are relatively unknown.
AIM: To explore the support needs of family members of suicidal people.
METHOD: Eighteen participants were interviewed using a short topic guide. Transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis and confirmed by discussion.
FINDINGS: Family members of suicidal people have unmet needs (this was the main theme). Four sub-themes emerged: having practical support, respite and advice; feeling acknowledged and included; having someone to turn-to; and consistency of support.
CONCLUSIONS: Family members are perceived to have an important role in suicide prevention; however some carers experience a lack of support which impinges on their ability to undertake this role. Family members need be included in care and require support from healthcare staff.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 212-6 |
Number of pages | 5 |
Journal | Journal of Mental Health |
Volume | 25 |
Issue number | 3 |
Early online date | 11 Dec 2015 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Jun 2016 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Adult
- Aged
- Caregivers
- Confidentiality
- Family
- Humans
- Middle Aged
- Needs Assessment
- Social Support
- Suicide
- Journal Article