The Impact of Peer Suicide During Adolescence on Mental Health: An Adult Perspective

Abstract

Problem: Initial interventions after the suicide of adolescents typically focus on those directly impacted by the death, however, little is known about the impact the suicide of a peer can have on adolescents, regardless of their relationship with the decedent. This study aims to understand how peer suicide has affected adolescents and to find resources that would help address their future mental health concerns. Method: A qualitative study was conducted consisting of interviews with four adults between the ages of 20 to 23 and six questions were asked of the participants surrounding their experiences with peer suicide during adolescence. Findings: There were initial feelings of shock, sadness, and disbelief in the immediate period after the suicide of a peer. Family and friends were the biggest factors in coping with the loss of a peer. The death by suicide of a peer emphasized the importance of mental health as a whole. Resources such as therapy, long-term follow-ups, and prevention efforts would have been beneficial after the suicide of a peer. Conclusion: Adolescents can use this information to assist in coping with the loss of a peer and nurses and other health care professionals can use this information to better address their patients’ mental health concerns when they have experienced a loss due to suicide.