Abstract
Despite higher rates of suicide in men, there is a dearth of research examining the perspectives and experiences of males at risk of suicide, particularly in terms of understanding how interventions can be tailored to men’s specific needs. The current study aimed to examine factors assisting, complicating or inhibiting interventions for men at risk, as well as outlining the roles of family, friends and others in male suicide prevention. Thirty-five male suicide survivors completed one-to-one interviews, and forty-seven family and friends of male suicide survivors participated in eight focus groups. Thematic analysis revealed five major themes: (1) development of suicidal behaviours tends to follow a common path associated with specific types of risk factors (disrupted mood, unhelpful stoic beliefs and values, avoidant coping strategies, stressors), (2) men at risk of suicide tend to systematically misinterpret changes in their behaviour and thinking, (3) understanding mood and behavioural changes in men enables identification of opportunities to interrupt suicide progression, (4) distraction, provision of practical and emotional supports, along with professional intervention may effectively interrupt acute risk of harm, and (5) suicidal ideation may be reduced through provision of practical help to manage crises, and helping men to focus on obligations and their role within families. Findings suggest that interventions for men at risk of suicidal behaviours need to be tailored to specific risk indicators, developmental factors, care needs and individuals’ preferences. To our knowledge this is the first qualitative study to explore the experiences of both suicidal men and their family/friends after a suicide attempt, with the view to improve understanding of the processes which are effective in interrupting suicide and better inform interventions for men at risk.
Highlights
While many more women attempt suicide, suicide rates are significantly higher in men [1,2]
Thirty-five men who had made a suicide attempt participated in interviews which lasted between 45–70 mins
The current study revealed patterns of suicidal behaviour associated with specific risk factors and warning signs in men, combining within a pathway to suicide consisting of a number of common features
Summary
While many more women attempt suicide, suicide rates are significantly higher in men [1,2]. Current research suggests that the way men express and cope with their depression or distress, and whether they choose to seek help for their mood is different to that of women [3,4]. Men are much less likely to seek help for depression and other mental health issues [7,8,9]. In the 12 months prior to a suicide, 35% of men compared to 58% of women sought care from a mental health practitioner [10]. Men are at higher risk of dying by suicide owing to ‘acquired capability’, evidenced by habituation to fear and pain, and use of more lethal methods of self-harm than women [11,12,13]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 
Published Version (
Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call