title: The unmet support needs of family members caring for a suicidal person.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The prevention of suicide is a key aim for health care authorities and society in general and family members have a principal role in caring for suicidal people. However, the support needs of these essential family carers are relatively unknown.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To explore the support needs of family members of suicidal people.
  
  
  METHODS
  Eighteen participants were interviewed using a short topic guide. Transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis and confirmed by discussion.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Family members of suicidal people have unmet needs (this was the main theme). Four sub-themes emerged: having practical support, respite and advice; feeling acknowledged and included; having someone to turn-to; and consistency of support.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Family members are perceived to have an important role in suicide prevention; however some carers experience a lack of support which impinges on their ability to undertake this role. Family members need be included in care and require support from healthcare staff.
authors.affiliation: a School of Nursing, Ulster University , North Ireland , UK.
authors.forename: Columba
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: McLaughlin
authors.affiliation: a School of Nursing, Ulster University , North Ireland , UK.
authors.forename: Iain
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: McGowan
authors.affiliation: a School of Nursing, Ulster University , North Ireland , UK.
authors.forename: George
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Kernohan
authors.affiliation: a School of Nursing, Ulster University , North Ireland , UK.
authors.forename: Siobhan
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: O'Neill
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D017028:Caregivers / Q000523:psychology*; D003219:Confidentiality; D005190:Family / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D020380:Needs Assessment; D012944:Social Support; D000092864:Suicide Prevention
keywords: Carer support needs; family support needs; mental health; suicidal behaviour; suicide