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. 2022 Nov 17;8(6):e200. doi: 10.1192/bjo.2022.599

Table 1.

Preliminary conceptual framework for the theoretical model of recovery after an acute suicidal episode

The seven recovery processes and their subcategories Studies containing each process, n (%)
Connectedness 23 (92%)
Becoming more connected to others 14 (56%)
Open communication 12 (48%)
Improving relationships 8 (32%)
Secure, loving and meaningful relationships 7 (28%)
 Support system 19 (76%)
 Warm environment 16 (64%)
 Therapy 15 (60%)
 Spending time with others 11 (44%)
 Support from others recovering from suicide 9 (36%)
 Reintegrating into society 5 (20%)
Belongingness 21 (84%)
Feeling accepted 15 (60%)
Validation 13 (52%)
Feeling important to others 11 (44%)
Belonging 7 (28%)
Non-verbal presence and support 2 (8%)
Insight 21 (84%)
Self-understanding 14 (56%)
Self-awareness 11 (44%)
Thinking/reflection, including about painful experiences 4 (16%)
Insight 3 (12%)
Understanding through context of life history 1 (4%)
 Gaining trust in humanity 3 (12%)
 Hopefulness 15 (60%)
 Positive thinking 1 (4%)
Evolving/moving past suicidality 21 (84%)
Understanding suicidality and recovery 10 (40%)
Comfortable discussing suicide 6 (24%)
Recognise effect of suicidality on others 4 (16%)
 Decision to live 17 (68%)
 Learning one's life has value 13 (52%)
 Plan for the future 8 (32%)
 Desire to live after a change in relationship with death 5 (20%)
 Stage of ambivalence 2 (8%)
Identity growth 20 (80%)
Personal autonomy 15 (60%)
Identity 14 (56%)
Personal growth 8 (32%)
Developing empathy 6 (24%)
Separating identity from suicide 5 (20%)
Developing skills for living 19 (76%)
Developing useful skills 16 (64%)
Being productive/proactive 11 (44%)
Self-expression 5 (20%)
Self-care 5 (20%)
 Verbal emotional catharsis 8 (32%)
 Professional care 7 (28%)
 Managing intense emotions 4 (16%)
Finding meaning 14 (56%)
Meaning in life 12 (48%)
Religion 8 (32%)
Spirituality 2 (8%)