Living with multiple sclerosis: A qualitative exploration of death, dying and suicide, in UK adults

Abstract

This qualitative study explored factors contributing to suicidal ideation among people living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) using the Integrated Motivational-Volitional Model (IMV) of suicide as a theoretical framework. Sixteen participants were interviewed and data analysed using Framework Analysis. The analysis generated four core themes: Theme 1:’Journey to Diagnosis’, captured the difficulties faced by people with MS as they sought a diagnosis and how this could be a trigger point for suicidal ideation. Theme 2: ‘Loss and Deprivation’, captured the struggles and consequences of living with MS which was linked to the transition from the pre-motivational to motivational phase of the IMV. Theme 3: ‘Permanence’, captured the cyclical and chronic nature of MS and was linked to entrapment in the IMV. Finally, theme 4: ‘Death and Suicide’, captured perspectives on death, dying, and suicide and the factors linked to suicidal ideation.