Mattering and Suicidal Ideation



Dadfar M^{1, 2, 3} Show Affiliations
Source: Understanding Suicidal Ideation Published:2020

Abstract

Mattering is a construct related to the sense of belonging to and with others, thereby reducing the sense of isolation and reducing the lack of communication within the social context. The present chapter reviews relationship between mattering, suicidal ideation and psychological concepts and reports a study to explore whether mattering and loneliness are associated with previous and current suicidal behavior. In a sample of psychiatric outpatients in Iran, both mattering and loneliness were associated with past suicide ideation and attempts and current suicidal ideation and suicide risk. No differences by sex were identified. The results indicate that mattering may be a useful construct, both theoretically and clinically, for understanding suicidal ideation and suicidal behavior in psychiatric patients and supports the development and practice of mattering-focused therapy in the treatment of suicidal psychiatric outpatients. © 2020 Nova Science Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved.