Trauma-informed care for youth suicide prevention: A qualitative analysis of caregivers' perspectives.

Journal Article (Journal Article)

OBJECTIVE: Research shows elevated rates of trauma exposure and traumatic stress among youth with suicidal thoughts and behaviors, underscoring the need for a trauma-informed approach to suicide prevention and intervention. The purpose of this study was to identify, from the perspective of caregivers, clinical practices that are sensitive to the needs of youth with co-occurring traumatic stress and suicidal thoughts and behaviors, as well as common barriers to receiving care. METHOD: Qualitative interviews were conducted with 13 caregivers of youth with trauma histories and comorbid suicidal thoughts and/or behaviors. Interviews were analyzed using a grounded theory approach. RESULTS: Qualitative analysis of interviews revealed themes related to the need for caregiver involvement in treatment, the impact of therapist and relationship characteristics such as authenticity and genuineness, and the importance of provider education about trauma. Common barriers included difficulties navigating the mental health system and cost. CONCLUSIONS: Findings provide guidance on how mental health providers can effectively recognize and respond to traumatic stress among youth presenting with suicidal thoughts and behaviors. System-level issues related to accessibility also are discussed. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved).

Full Text

Duke Authors

Cited Authors

  • Inscoe, AB; Donisch, K; Cheek, S; Stokes, C; Goldston, DB; Asarnow, JR

Published Date

  • May 2022

Published In

Volume / Issue

  • 14 / 4

Start / End Page

  • 653 - 660

PubMed ID

  • 34166044

Electronic International Standard Serial Number (EISSN)

  • 1942-969X

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

  • 10.1037/tra0001054

Language

  • eng

Conference Location

  • United States