"Embracing is the most important thing we can do" – Caring for the family members of patients at risk of suicide. Issue 1 (1st January 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Vatne, May; Lohne, Vibeke; Nåden, Dagfinn
• Is Part Of: International journal of qualitative studies on health and well-being. Volume 16:Issue 1(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-01-01
• Subjects: Suicidal inpatients -- Family members -- Mental health services -- Health personnel's experiences -- Acknowledgement -- Embracing -- Involvement -- Collaboration; Qualitative research -- Periodicals; Health -- Research -- Methodology -- Periodicals; 362.1072
• DOI: 10.1080/17482631.2021.1996682
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1748-2623

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Aim: This study explores mental health personnel's experiences in the encounter with family members of patients at risk of suicide so as to develop a deeper understanding of the content of caring. Methodology: Data were collected using semi-structured interviews with 12 participants and were analysed and interpreted using a model inspired by the philosophical hermeneutics of Gadamer. The context was psychiatric wards. Findings: Through a thematic analysis, four themes emerged: Acknowledgement as a premise for involving family members. Embracing with the family members' feelings and reactions. Strengthening hope in a situation entailing a serious risk of suicide. Providing reassurance to family members in transitional situations. Conclusion: Witnessing the family members' suffering and needs is understood as arousing a sense of responsibility in the participants and triggering various care strategies such as listening, embracing, strengthening hope and providing reassurance.