Perceptions and Attitudes of Mental Health Professionals Towards Suicidal Behavior Cases: A Cross-Sectional Qualitative Study

Abstract

<title>Abstract</title> <bold>Aims:</bold> This study aims to examine the attitudes and perceptions of Mental health Professionals toward suicidal behavior cases. <bold>Background: </bold>Suicide remains a significant public health challenge worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. In Rwanda, suicide rates have increased due to a combination of psychological, social, cultural, and economic factors. Mental health professionals (MHPs) play a critical role in suicide prevention, yet their perceptions, attitudes, and coping mechanisms remain underexplored. This study investigates MHPs’ perspectives on recognizing suicidal behavior, identifying risk factors, and managing the emotional burden associated with suicide prevention. <bold>Methods:</bold> A qualitative, cross-sectional study was conducted using semi-structured interviews with 12 mental health professionals working in various institutions across Rwanda. Participants were selected through purposive sampling. Data collection involved both in-person and virtual interviews, with thematic analysis applied to identify recurring themes in MHPs’ experiences, attitudes, and coping strategies. Ethical considerations, including informed consent and confidentiality, were strictly adhered to. <bold>Results: </bold>Findings reveal that MHPs identify hopelessness, social withdrawal, somatic complaints, and verbalized suicide intent as primary indicators of suicide risk. Family conflict, mental illness, economic distress, and genocide-related trauma were cited as major contributing factors. MHPs reported experiencing guilt, frustration, countertransference, and burnout when working with suicidal patients. However, coping mechanisms such as spiritual practices, social support, clinical supervision, and physical activities were commonly employed to manage emotional distress. <bold>Conclusion:</bold> Addressing stigma, improving training in suicide risk assessment, expanding mental health services, and enhancing professional support systems are critical for strengthening suicide prevention efforts. Implementing evidence-based interventions and community-focused mental health strategies can improve outcomes for at-risk individuals and reduce the emotional burden on MHPs.