Exploring the Lives of Korean College Students Who Attempted Suicide: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Purpose: This study was conducted to obtain in-depth understanding of the life experiences of college students who attempted suicide. Methods: This study employed qualitative methods involving in-depth interviews, where researchers and participants met one-on-one to capture personal experiences and perspectives. Data were analyzed using Colaizzi's phenomenological approach, providing a systematic interpretation aligned with the lived experiences and challenges shared by the participants. Results: The following six themes reflected participants’ experiences: “A family that has left behind deficiencies and wounds that are not easy to overcome”, “Lingering struggles even as college students”, “Seeking self-worth through relationships”, “Achievement at all costs: The search for self-worth in a life obsessed with success”, “The irony of those aspiring to live: suicide” and “The fight still continues” Conclusions: The results underscore the necessity of broadening our interpretive framework to better understand and address the concealed complexities of mental health in this demographic. Mental health professionals are urged to consider these nuanced dynamics when developing targeted interventions to support students through their unique challenges.