Exploration of Suicidal thinking in Multiple Sclerosis V1
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Exploration of the lived experience and meaning making of suicidal thinking in people with Multiple Sclerosis; an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis
IRAS ID
331950
Contact name
Ashleigh Roe
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Edinburgh
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 8 months, 26 days
Research summary
Summary of Research
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a lifelong neurological disorder involving debilitating physical and psychological symptoms and is characterised by an unpredictable nature. Mental health difficulties, predominantly depression and anxiety, are more prevalent in people with MS. Depression and anxiety are often associated with the development of suicidal thoughts and feelings about wanting to end one’s own life. Research suggests a suicide risk within people with MS that is double that of the general population. However, what is less understood and under-researched is people with MS’ experience of suicidal ideation.
The proposed study aims to utilise a qualitative approach to explore the lived experiences of people with MS who have experienced suicidal ideation and how they make sense of this. Participants will be adults with an MS diagnosis from Neurology, who are currently NHS Tayside Neurology/Neuropsychology outpatients. Around 6-10 participants will take part in an individual semi-structured interview lasting approximately one hour, at Tayside Neurology department. Additionally, separate questions will be asked to obtain demographic information. Upon completion, a risk assessment of each participant will be conducted to ensure their safety.
It is hoped that the research findings will inform optimal psychological intervention and approaches to risk assessment for people with MS. The findings of the study will be disseminated to relevant NHS services supporting people with MS, as well as to third sector organisations to increase awareness of the findings. The aim is for the research to be published in a widely accessed research journal to contribute to and expand upon existing literature on people with MS’ lived experience and meaning making of experiencing suicidal ideation, in addition to being published in the University of Edinburgh’s online research database.
Summary of Results
Eight individuals with a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) took part in this research, all of whom reported having experienced thoughts around ending their own life (suicidal ideation) in the aftermath of receiving their MS diagnosis. Participants were interviewed face to face.
An approach called Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) was used to analyse the interview data. This allowed exploration of how participants make sense of their lived experiences by analysing not just what they said, but how, and what it meant to them. Three overarching themes were identified, with inter-related subthemes. The first theme, ‘Emergence of Suicidal Ideation from Psychological Strain’, explored factors including feelings of fading identity, burdensomeness, fear and various losses. Secondly, ‘Cognitive Dissonance in Suicidal Ideation’ reflected the internal conflict individuals faced in relation to suicidal thinking, both during and in the aftermath. Finally, ‘Co-existing Coping Mechanisms and Support’ explored individuals’ internal and external ways of coping with MS and suicidal thinking.
The data reflect the emotional toll of MS, inherent ongoing adjustment and how suicidal thinking can emerge, particularly at times of diagnosis, relapse and stress. The findings highlight the value of both peer and professional support, though indicate the necessity of health care addressing mental and physical health equally within MS, as the emotional impact of MS commonly feels unacknowledged and less of a priority within MS care.
The results have been shared within Neurology/MS staff in the hospital. This study is also intended to be submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed journal.
REC name
West of Scotland REC 3
REC reference
24/WS/0020
Date of REC Opinion
28 Mar 2024
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion