Related Experiment Videos
Suicidal behavior during economic hard times
Marta Elliott1, Dara E Naphan2, Barbara L Kohlenberg3
1Department of Sociology, University of Nevada, Reno, Reno, NV, USA melliott@unr.edu.
The International Journal of Social Psychiatry
|November 1, 2014
Summary
Economic hardship and poor mental healthcare often precede suicidal behavior. Seeking help through suicide attempts can lead to increased support and immediate psychiatric treatment, highlighting the need for sustained mental health funding.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Psychology
- Sociology
Background:
- Quantitative research dominates suicide studies.
- Qualitative research is essential to understand subjective experiences of suicidal behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate circumstances, motivations, and consequences of suicidal behavior.
- Focus on individuals hospitalized for attempted suicide and suicidal ideation during economic recession.
Main Methods:
- Conducted in-depth semi-structured interviews with inpatients.
- Utilized framework analysis for qualitative data interpretation.
Main Results:
- Interpersonal conflict, economic hardship, and inadequate mental health care preceded suicidal behavior.
- Suicidal attempts resulted in increased social support and immediate access to mental health services.
Conclusions:
- Sustained or increased government funding for outpatient mental health care is crucial during economic recessions.
- Mental health services act as a critical safety net for vulnerable populations facing severe distress.