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
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.
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