GIVING MEANING TO FAMILY MEMBERS’ WORD AFFECTING SUICIDAL IDEATION IN PATIENTS WITH DEPRESSION

Abstract

               Objective: To describe the meaning of words/phrases spoken by significant family members which might lead to suicidal ideation or suicide attempts by patients with depression.

               Methods: A descriptive qualitative research design with content analysis was conducted. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 10 patients diagnosed with a depressive disorder by a psychiatrist, who had a history of suicidal ideation or attempts at least once.

               Results: Content analysis revealed three characteristics: 1) Words that trigger feelings of being unwanted, such as “go drop dead”; 2) words meant to reinforce and aggravate existing negative feelings, such as comparing patients to others unfavorably; 3) words interpreted as blaming, insulting, feeling worthless, useless, and being burdensome to others. When spoken by significant family members, the words and phrases created feelings of resentment and disappointment that reinforced existing sadness that might lead to suicidal ideation.

               Conclusion: The speech, tone of voice, and verbal posturing used by significant family members reflect the strong impact that words/phrases can have on patients with a depressive disorder. The words/phrases might stimulate suicidal ideation or suicide attempts.