Lived experience perspectives on suicide-related help-seeking

Purpose Malaysia, a multicultural country with a Muslim majority, has historically criminalized suicide. Health-care workers’ poor understanding of suicide further complicates support for those in need. This study aims to explore the help-seeking experiences of Malaysians with suicidal thoughts or attempts. Design/methodology/approach Nineteen participants, primarily female (92%) participated in virtual focus groups. Data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis to identify facilitators and barriers to help-seeking. Findings Facilitators of formal help-seeking included family encouragement, accessibility, self-motivation and previous positive experiences. Barriers included high costs, negative past experiences and self-stigma. Informal help-seeking was facilitated by disclosure for relief or support, while barriers included fear of burdening others, stigma and previous negative responses to disclosures. Originality/value Few studies have examined the barriers and facilitators of help-seeking for suicidality in Malaysia. Despite the recent decriminalization of suicide in Malaysia, there is insufficient investment in suicide prevention and mental health programming, and the results highlight the need for nationwide suicide prevention programs to address cultural and religious stigma.