Relationship between Lithuanians’ Attitudes Towards Life, Emotional States, and Suicidal Ideation
Associate Professor Aiste Diržyte

Abstract
Suicides continue to be the most devastating consequence of Lithuanians’ inability to cope with life pressures, as various surveys indicate that for the last two decades Lithuania has been among the countries demonstrating the highest rates of suicides in the World. Lithuanians’ cognitions towards life as well as suicidal ideation, which are the primary markers for future suicidal behavior have not been explored thoroughly. This paper presents some results of the survey (representative sample, n=1002) which was conducted in Lithuania in February – April 2014. Based on the findings of various authors referring to the importance of suicidal ideation on a continuum of suicidal behavior, the research aimed at exploring the link between certain attitudes towards life and suicidal ideation. Furthermore, it aimed at analyzing socio-demographic variables related to suicidal ideation. Finally, it targeted the link between suicidal ideation and emotional states. The present study showed that people, who are seriously considering suicide as a possible solution of their problems, are not satisfied with life; they feel miserably and cannot think about this life as meaningful, worthy living, purposeful, pleasant, fulfilled. Suicidal risk related cognition “I am considering seriously suicide as a possible solution of my problems” was found to be statistically significantly related to strong negative emotional states during the last week, such as pique, anger, anxiety, psychological pain, guilt, sadness, fear, stress, hopelessness, helplessness, meaninglessness, shame. It was also statistically significantly negatively related to positive states such as gratefulness, happiness, trust, hopefulness, and positive life perceptions. This might imply that in order to diminish the rates of suicides in Lithuania, there is a need to implement evidence based psycho-educational programs and interventions (to cope with negative emotions and life pressures, to increase psychological wellbeing).

Full Text: PDF