CRENÇAS E RITUAIS DE FAMILIARES NO CONTEXTO DO COMPORTAMENTO SUICIDA DURANTE A COVID-19

Abstract

Suicidal behavior is a psychological expression that varies in severity and can manifest itself through self-harm and suicide attempts. The literature indicates that the COVID-19 pandemic may have increased and/or decreased these behaviors, causing great suffering to family members who need post-vention support. To understand the beliefs and rituals of family members of people in the context of suicidal behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic. Qualitative, cross-sectional research, with data collection from January to August 2023. Family members from the state of São Paulo were invited to participate through social media, where the link to a form was made available by REDCap containing some open and closed questions and an invitation for a telephone interview. The interviews were recorded and conducted individually by telephone. The data obtained were analyzed using Thematic Content Analysis. Nine family members between the ages of 18 and 48 participated; seven were female, with first, second and third degree of kinship. Four empirical categories were revealed: Importance of Rituals; Importance of Religion; Influence of the Covid-19 Pandemic, Identification of Signs and Symptoms of Psychological Distress. Most family members had their faith strengthened after the loss and were able to perform rites of passage linked to religion. The possibility of performing rites was presented as a positive mechanism for dealing with the process of mourning and acceptance of reality. However, some participants were unable to perform ritualistic ceremonies due to religion and the pandemic, causing excruciating pain, a crisis of faith, anger, and revolt.