Knowing to care: life stories of adolescent survivors of suicide attempts in a Brazilian metropolis

Abstract

Objective: To understand the reasons attributed by adolescents to suicide attempts based on their narratives. Method: Qualitative research, based on oral life history. Participants were 12 adolescents attending eight Child and Adolescent Psychosocial Care Centers in the city of São Paulo. The interviews took place between August and December 2024, and data were analyzed according to Bardin’s thematic content analysis. Results: The following circumstances associated with suicide attempts were identified: difficulties in emotional regulation; grief; family conflicts, especially with single mothers; emotional neglect; physical, psychological, and sexual violence; bullying; discrimination based on gender identity, sexual orientation, and geographic origin; isolation; low self-esteem; self-harm; and depressive and anxious symptoms. Conclusion: Adolescents reported distress marked by grief, violence, discrimination, and emotional vulnerability. Their attempts reflect a lack of support and belonging. Listening to these adolescents allows us to identify the importance of qualified listening and intersectoral public policies that mitigate the psychosocial vulnerabilities present in their lives.