Young People's Pathways to Well-being Following a Suicide Attempt

Abstract

Little is known about young people's pathways to recovery following suicidal behaviour. An understanding of young people's experiences and transitions to recovery and well-being is required to inform the development of suicide prevention and mental health promotion initiatives. The aim of this study was to explore young people's experiences of recovery and well-being following a suicide attempt, through in-depth interviews with 27 young people who had presented to an emergency department. A number of useful techniques which may be helpful to young people in their transitions towards attaining a sense of self-responsibility and increased agency were identified, including active help-seeking from professionals and peers, practical problem-solving abilities, thinking positively and rediscovering a ‘will to live’.