Dealing with grief after suicide

Uncategorized

Helping someone bereaved by suicide

People are often prepared for the deaths of elderly parents, friends or relatives who have a serious illness, but we are rarely prepared for the impact of sudden death. We are usually even less prepared for the suicide of someone we know.

When an individual dies by suicide, it is estimated that between seven and ten members of the individual's close family and friends will be affected by that death.
Suicide often leaves behind questions of "why?" or "what could I have done?". Those left behind may experience emotions including shock, disbelief, denial, regret, anger, shame, sadness, rejection, yearning, despair, blaming, detachment, loss of confidence and guilt. This range of reactions emphasises the important and sometimes difficult task we all have when we want to help someone who is bereaved by suicide.
Frequently we don't know how to begin a conversation or know what to do or say. People bereaved by suicide often tell how they felt stigmatized by those closest to them not discussing what has happened. When their friends have finally spoken they very often say "I didn't know what to say" or "I didn't know what to do".

How you can best support a person bereaved by suicide:

LISTEN TO THE STORY or sit with them in their pain, sometimes this may be a time of silence
LISTEN WITHOUT JUDGING - you cannot change what has happened or take away the pain but you can help by being there, caring and listening
BE PREPARED for any and all reactions
KEEP IN TOUCH on a regular basis, don't abandon those mourning this loss. There may be times when your offers are refused, try again later
OFFER TO DO SOMETHING PRACTICAL such as making a meal, doing the shopping or washing
GIVE PEOPLE TIME to begin their healing.