Exploring the Suicide Phenomenon: Basis for the Development of a Counseling Program

Abstract

This qualitative study conducted in May 2010 sought to find out the characteristics of the eight suicide attempters, the precipitating factors that trigger them to attempt suicide, their coping mechanisms, the role of significant others in their health, the insights gained from the experience and the post intervention services availed after the incident. Data gathering strategies used were the researcher-made interview guide and the focused-group discussions using photo essay which summarized the commonalities among the informants. The informants were college students doing the usual activities of normal teenagers with varying circumstances of family background and economic status in life; they also experienced hardships, difficulties, pain, anger, joy, and happiness just like any average teenager but they lack the ability to cope with the overwhelming situations and problems; they experienced moments of emptiness and psychological hopelessness; and they also experienced severe physical maltreatment and varied emotional abuse. Strained or failed romantic relationship had added to the realization of their suicidal ideations, but then, they were able to cope with the aftermath by employing some coping strategies. Their friends became their shoulders to lean on; their immediate family members and relatives were their wings who offered financial, moral and emotional support; and their teachers and classmates were their lifeline. The informants’ painful experiences of their attempt to end their lives helped them gain insights and realized that there is more to life. Among the eight informants, only one received a formal post intervention service, while others received the usual care and acceptance from the significant others who accepted them for what happened and what they had done.