Experiences of Individuals with Depression Who Repeatedly Attempt Suicide

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the experiences of individuals with depression who have made multiple suicide attempts and to obtain suggestions for nursing care to prevent such attempts. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with five individuals with depression who had attempted suicide twice or more. The data obtained was analyzed on the basis of Giorgi’s scientific phenomenological approach.

Individuals with depression had accumulated psychological distress and experienced [suicidal behavior due to persistent occlusive situations beyond their control]. They reached a state of thinking that death was the only solution, and the resultant psychological turmoil led to [impulsive suicidal behavior in search of release from painful reality] and [a rush to suicidal behavior driven by the desire to die]. At the same time, they also experienced hesitations and regrets, [consciously or unconsciously withdrawing from the decision of certain death]. Notably, even after the suicide attempt, the underlying problem causing the distress had not been resolved.

It was suggested that understanding suicide attempts from the perspective of individuals with depression is essential and that self-control and nursing support are crucial in helping these individuals escape from the state of being obsessed with suicidal thoughts.