Suicide and suicide behavior: A qualitative study in Telangana, India

Abstract

This study aimed to understand the perceptions and experiences of suicide attempters in order to suggest potential initiatives to reduce the suicide burden in rural India. The study is based on 46 in-depth interviews with suicide attempters and 4 focus group discussions with their family members. Interview content analysis revealed information related to four anticipated themes: the characteristics of a suicide attempt are complex; suicide attempters are taken to public hospitals for first aid and treatment; the consequences of suicide attempts are diverse; and quality of life improved after the suicide attempt. There were also two unanticipated themes: suicide attempters sought help from potential rescuers; and the underreporting of suicide attempts. Emergent themes from the focus group discussions were the vulnerable group for suicide; poverty, indebtedness, family conflicts and unemployment are the main reasons for suicide; non-violent methods are used to commit suicide; there were no behavioral changes before suicide; the devastating effects on the families of decedents; positive community support to suicide survivor families; and expectations of preventive measures from both the community and government. The article argues that to reduce the suicide burden, the government should adopt a two-pronged strategy of creating a secure livelihood all-year round and providing psychological counseling at both the household and community levels.