Abstract
This qualitative study explores the relationship between veterans’ spirituality/religion and suicide ideation and attempts. Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with 30 veterans who either endorsed chronic suicidal ideation or had made suicide attempt(s). Interviews explored the bi-directional relationship between spirituality/religion (e.g., beliefs, practices, and experiences), and suicide ideation and behaviors. Interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis. Veterans’ responses indicate that spirituality/religion can discourage or permit suicidal ideation, help in coping with ideation, and facilitate meaning making and coping in the presence of self-perceived suffering. Veterans who survived a suicide attempt explored the impact of their spirituality/religion on their recovery. Findings highlight a complex and diverse relationship between spirituality/religion and suicidality. These findings may inform further research on treatment strategies that assess the function of spirituality/religion, and incorporate protective aspects of spirituality/religion into mental health treatment.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 311-326 |
Number of pages | 16 |
Journal | Archives of Suicide Research |
Volume | 22 |
Issue number | 2 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Apr 3 2018 |
Keywords
- qualitative
- religion
- spirituality
- suicidality
- veterans
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Clinical Psychology
- Psychiatry and Mental health