Integrated Aftercare Support for Parents and Carers Following a Child's Suicide Attempt: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background

Parents and carers often provide support for their child following a suicide attempt. Yet many parents struggle to obtain support for themselves during this stressful period which can result in feelings of powerlessness and being unheard.

Purpose

The aim of the current study was to explore the experiences of parents and carers whose child was receiving intensive outreach support following a suicide attempt.

Methodology

The study used semi-structured interviews with parents and carers. Interviews were conducted via telephone ranging from 14 to 56 min (M = 29 min). An inductive thematic analysis was undertaken to explore the data. Seven parents and carers participated in one-on-one interviews.

Results

It was found that the outreach support provided was vastly different from prior experiences and this was a pleasant surprise. In addition, parents described the high level of emotional support for both the child and themselves. A highlight of the support was the family peer worker whom they could relate to. Parents acknowledged that contact with the team provided insights on how to change their parenting or relationship practices.

Conclusion

Direct and dedicated parent support is a key aspect that services should consider when implementing a child and youth service to address suicidality, since this enables the family to readjust following a traumatic event.