Date of Conferral

6-11-2024

Date of Award

June 2024

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Human Services

Advisor

Kelly Chermack

Abstract

Depression and suicide ideation are mental health disorders that have seen a sharp increase recently and impact the global population, with adverse effects on the public health of the entire United States. Researchers have shown that mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) are an evolving phenomenon used in addressing common mental challenges, such as depression and suicide, resulting in improved psychosocial and psychological stability. The purpose of this generic study was to explore the experiences of human service professionals (HSPs) who use MBI to support clients with depression and suicidal ideation in Chicago. Seven purposively sampled HSPs were the participants in the study. Saldana’s thematic approach was used to analyze the data analysis, I created codes, categories, and themes. Eight themes emerged: (a) the main conditions identified and treated with MBI were depression, behavioral aspects of an individual, sadness, loss of interest, hopelessness, and suicidal ideation using MBI; (b) patient history, taken as the first line of communication while using MBI; (c) HSPs have seen success, improved psychological, emotional, and mental health with MBI, and positive outcomes on depression and suicidal ideation; (d) HSPs taught MBI breathing, meditation, and physical activities to their client to apply during depression and suicidal ideation episodes; (e) HSPs’ use of MBI seems to improve depression and suicidal ideation; and (f) individualized MBI approaches are needed. The positive social change implications of the study include providing a fundamental approach to addressing depression and suicidal ideation using individualized MBI during a crisis.

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