Self-perception about psychic suffering in individuals with depressive symptomatology and suicide behavior

Abstract

Objective of the study: To analyze the self-perception of psychological distress in individuals with depressive symptoms and its relationship with suicidal behavior in the general adult population. Methodology: Exploratory, descriptive, qualitative research, using thematic Content Analysis. Interviews were carried out through a semi-structured questionnaire with 200 participants over 18 years old, domiciled in Poços de Caldas, MG, between January 2017 and October 2018. Results: Participants showed no perception of depression and death wish as a way out of suffering mental illness caused by depression; justified the loss of affection, fear, despair, lack of family support, rumination of ideas, conflicting family relationships, loss of self-esteem, and loneliness for the development of depression. Conclusions: Self-perception of depressive symptoms was related to not having a perception of depression or admission of the disorder, and sadness for the memories aroused. An association between depressive symptoms and suicidal behavior was present.