Entre o existir e o desistir: uma exploração fenomenológica da dimensão espiritual e da espiritualidade/religião no enfrentamento do suicídio

Abstract

The present thesis, titled "Between Existence and Desistance: A Phenomenological Exploration of the Spiritual Dimension and Spirituality/Religion in Coping with Suicide," examines the human duality between the search for purpose -- existence -- and existential despair -- desistance. This duality reflects the constant tension between the disconnection and fragmentation of identity, exacerbated by the socio-economic, cultural, and psychological pressures of today, and the inherent ability of individuals to find meaning and transcendence. The central objective of this research is to understand the influence of the spiritual dimension and the experience of spirituality and/or religion in coping with and preventing suicide in contemporary society. We aim to answer how an individual's spiritual dimension and their experience of spirituality/religion influence coping with and preventing suicide, especially in contexts where religion predominates and, paradoxically, suicide rates continue to rise. The thesis is grounded in the philosophical reflections of Kant and Scheler on the dual nature of man as a rational and moral being with a spiritual structure. Frankl contributes the idea of the human being as a corporeal-psychic-spiritual unit in search of meaning. Arendt's phenomenology explores how thinking, willing, and judging intertwine in the context of the suicidal crisis. Spinoza offers the perspective of suicide as contrary to human nature, resulting from external influences that overcome the natural impulse for self-preservation. Berger's sociological approach is also incorporated, highlighting how the construction of social reality influences individual experiences of suffering and overcoming. The research methodology is qualitative and uses a phenomenological approach to understand the subjective experiences of individuals contemplating suicide. We analyze interviews with survivors, examining how their religious practices or spiritual experiences influence both the exacerbation and recovery and resilience. The results indicate that suicide is a complex phenomenon, influenced by biological, historical, social, cultural, psychological, and spiritual factors. We propose a syndemic approach to suicide, recognizing it as interconnected with multiple social, economic, and health factors, and highlight spirituality as vital for emotional and mental well-being. The practical conclusions emphasize the need to integrate spirituality into suicide prevention strategies. Programs that promote emotional resilience and reconnection with communities and support systems are effective. Additionally, they underscore the importance of public policies that address the structural causes of despair and disconnection, creating conditions that promote a fulfilling life. In sum, this study advances the syndemic understanding of suicide and the role of spirituality and religion in coping with and preventing this phenomenon