Half alive but still longing for death: Exploring the experiences of patients waking up in the intensive care unit after a suicide attempt—a qualitative study
The findings reveal that care through empathetic communication and a supportive environment is crucial during this critical phase of the treatment. Additionally, patients often have trouble distinguishing reality upon regaining consciousness in the ICU, further emphasising the importance of compassionate and well-informed care. Our findings highlight the need for specialised training and sensitivity among ICU personnel to adequately address both the physical and emotional needs of patients recovering from suicide attempts.
Authors
- Mari Asphjell Bjørnaas
- Kristin Hofsø (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5854-8461)
- Tone Rustøen (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4885-442X)
- Julia Hagen (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6682-5521)
- Tine K. Grimholt
- Aina Evensen Helme
Institutions
- Oslo University Hospital (NO)
- University of Oslo (NO)
- National Hospital (IN)
- Lovisenberg Diakonale Høgskole (NO)
- VID Specialized University (NO)
- NTNU Samfunnsforskning (NO)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Australian Critical Care
- Published
- 2025-11-27
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aucc.2025.101484
- Primary Topic
- Family and Patient Care in Intensive Care Units
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00