Mental Health Challenges in the Socio-Cultural Context: The Study of Suicide Attempt Among Women in Marginal Neighborhoods

In this research, we have studied suicide attempt among women in the marginal neighborhoods of Khorramabad (a city in Iran) using the phenomenological methodology. Through purposive sampling, data were collected through in-depth interviews with 20 participants who had experienced suicide attempt. Claysey method was used to analyze the data. In understanding the participants' perceptions of the causes and contexts of suicide attempt in these neighborhoods, we reached seven main themes, each of which has more detailed categories and concepts. These themes are: 1. Poverty and economic issues; 2. domestic violence; 3. Forced and early marriages; 4. Continuation of difficulties; 5. Incompatibility with traditions; 6. Social pressure; and 7. Lack of social support. Semantic constructs indicate that the research participants experience a complex, insecure and difficult living environment according to their specific socio-cultural background, which damages their mental health and leads to their weakness in dealing with the stresses and pressures of life and reducing their decision-making power. In addition, the results indicate the presence of psychological disorders and issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, social stigma, low resilience, personality disorders, and impulsivity among these women. Therefore, mental health centers in marginal neighborhoods should regularly examine and screen women's thoughts and behaviors related to suicide in order to provide psychological interventions if necessary.