Traumatic experiences and coping strategies from the perspective of individuals who have repeatedly attempted suicide: A phenomenological study

Abstract

Background: Suicide is a complex and multidimensional public health problem that affects hundreds of thousands of people worldwide every year. Objectives: This study was conducted to evaluate traumatic experiences and coping strategies from the perspective of individuals with repeated suicide attempts. Methods: Using a phenomenological design from qualitative research methods, this study was conducted with 18 individuals with repeated suicide attempts. Criterion sampling method, one of the purposeful sampling methods, was used in the study. Interviews continued until data saturation was achieved. All interviews were recorded with a voice recorder and then transcribed. The research data were analyzed using Colaizzi's phenomenological method, and the research was conducted and reported in accordance with the COREQ (Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research) checklist. Results: Three main themes (traumatic life events, psychological trauma and affect, coping strategies) and nine sub-themes (abuse, neglect, family dynamics, social problems, feelings of worthlessness and emptiness, anger and inner conflict, hopelessness and burnout, functional pathways, and hopeful steps) were obtained. Conclusion: This study highlights the multidimensional nature of suicidal behavior by revealing that repeated suicide attempts are closely related to traumatic events experienced by individuals, intense emotional processes, and the coping strategies they use.