The unmet support needs of family members caring for a suicidal person

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.

• Carer support needs
• family support needs
• mental health
• suicidal behaviour
• suicide

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank “Zest – Healing the Hurt” Derry, N. Ireland for allowing interviews on their premises and also for agreeing to provide psychological support for participants should they have requested it.

Declaration of interest

There was no conflict of interest.