A near-death experience (NDE) is generally considered an altered state of consciousness that occurs in life-threatening situations, whether real or perceived. We call this a phase state, including it in the same category as lucid dreaming, sleep paralysis, and others.
Sometimes, an NDE can occur as a result of a failed suicide attempt. American researcher Robert King decided to analyze how the NDE affects the survivor’s attitude toward death and suicide. Are these individuals more likely to repeat the attempt or not?
As the scientist notes, there is still little scientific data on NDEs. He did not conduct his own survey—instead, he collected all the accounts available in the literature and, based on the person’s report, assessed whether suicidal thoughts remained.
Many studies contain positive characterizations of NDEs. Survivors undergo spiritual transformation, describe encounters with God, angels, deceased relatives, and gaining a new purpose in life. However, King’s analysis shows that there are still many factors that could lead tp a repeat suicide attempt.
Interestingly, a positive NDE can be one of them. The experience may be so good that the person wishes to return “home” and is actually angry at those who brought them back from the afterlife. Many interpret the experience as a real encounter with the spiritual world, and their fear of death disappears completely.
Sometimes, suicidal thoughts remain, but the NDE produces a restraining factor, such as a warning not to repeat the attempt under the threat of divine punishment or a task to complete in life. The author notes that such preventive measures can be considered a satisfactory solution, but they are insufficient, and survivors of suicide attempts require therapy.
Do you know of any cases of suicide after a near-death experience?
The article was published in March 2023 in the OMEGA – Journal of Death and Dying.
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