@article{ref1,
title="Sharing is caring: a realist evaluation of a social support group for individuals who have been bereaved by suicide",
journal="OMEGA - Journal of death and dying",
year="2022",
author="Adshead, Claire and Runacres, Jessica",
volume="ePub",
number="ePub",
pages="ePub-ePub",
abstract="AIM: To understand the experiences and perceived impact on the wellbeing of individuals attending a suicide bereavement social support group. <br><br>DESIGN: A qualitative study guided by a realist evaluation framework. <br><br>METHODS: Data were collected from May-July 2020 using online semistructured individual interviews with participants (N = 6), from the North West of England recruited from a suicide bereavement support group's social media. Data were analysed using thematic analysis informed by the realist framework. <br><br>RESULTS: Effective social support includes the prioritisation of building meaningful connections with like-minded individuals, providing a safe space for authentic self-expression aiding personal relationship maintenance. Contextual factors included: Societal and cultural stigma of suicide, self-stigma and gender norms. Mechanisms influencing support seeking include: Not wanting to burden loved ones due to judgement, and a lack of understanding. IMPACT: Policymakers can reduce demand on healthcare systems by developing tailored support groups to suit individual needs.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="0030-2228",
doi="10.1177/00302228211070152",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/00302228211070152"
}