Spirituality/Medicine Interface Project

Suicide and Spirituality: A Clinical Perspective

Authors: John Peteet, MD

Abstract

Over 30,000 people commit suicide each year in the United States. While the reasons in each case may be complex, the decision that life is not worth living is an expression of existential despair. Most studies show an inverse relationship between religious involvement and suicide.1,2 This paper reviews ways that clinicians can take into account a patient's worldview and existential concerns when assessing suicide risk, can bring spiritual resources to bear in dealing with these concerns, and can assist families and friends with spiritual healing in the aftermath of a completed suicide.

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