Navigating Grief and Loss After a Suicide: Practical Tips and Support Resources
In recent years, the rate of suicide has risen. Hardly a day goes by that we don’t hear about a public figure who has committed suicide. Sadly, it’s becoming all too common. One study found that there is an alarming rise in the rate of suicide for children ages 10-14. Yes, you read that right…10-14 years old!!
Suicide happens in every culture, socio-economic level, race, gender, and age, and is one of the leading causes of death world-wide!
We like to think that our lives will not be impacted by suicide. But the truth is, at some point in our lives we will know someone who takes his/her own life. In fact, in the past few years, I have lost too many loved ones to suicide. I still don’t quite understand.
If you’ve recently lost a loved one to suicide, your grief and loss is likely overwhelming. You may feel like you can’t even begin to comprehend the pain that’s been inflicted, or why this has happened.
It doesn’t matter how long the grieving process lasts—what matters is that you exist within it, and as hard as it can be at times, there are ways of navigating through these feelings with some degree of grace and understanding.
Losing a loved one to suicide can feel like an unbearable weight.
The complexities of grief and loss in this circumstance are often hard to navigate, as intense waves of guilt, anger, sadness, and confusion may wash over you at different points during the grieving process. There is no “correct” way for each person to go through his/her journey-
it’s vital that we all remember our stories are valid regardless of how those around us might be coping with similar circumstances.
In this blog post, we will explore how to cope with such a dreadful event in an empathetic way so that healing might be possible for not only ourselves but those around us. It is important to understand the risk factors associated with suicide, signs of distress, and how to help those who may be considering taking their own life.
What is Grief and Loss After a Suicide?
The passing of a loved one by suicide can be difficult to process and is often felt intensely. This type of loss may bring about feelings such as guilt, shock, disbelief or anger – making it even harder for those left behind.
Grief affects everyone differently; there is no “perfect” way to cope with this kind grief-filled journey. It’s important we are mindful of not only our own emotions but also the emotional needs of others struggling through similar experiences during these trying times.
The Stages of Grief and Loss
Losing a loved one is never easy, but the stages of grief and loss can help us to make sense of our pain. Denial, anger, bargaining depression and acceptance are common experiences that many people go through when they’re mourning; however, it’s important to remember everyone grieves differently – some may cycle through the same stage multiple times or in a different order than expected.
No matter how painful your journey is, though, let yourself feel all emotions as part of processing this traumatic experience with love and compassion for yourself.
To read more about the stages of grief, click here.
How to Cope with Grief and Loss After a Suicide
Grief and loss after a suicide can be incredibly difficult, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to move through. Everyone’s experience is unique and different techniques may work best for each individual as they go along this journey of healing.
It might help trying out self-care practices such as:
- engaging in activities you enjoy or setting boundaries with yourself
- seeking professional support, if needed
- reaching out for comfort from friends and family members who are willing to listen
- journaling your thoughts, which could provide a sense of clarity among the chaos inside your head (you can find a self-care journal here)
- connecting purposefully with the deceased by visiting meaningful places where memories will stay alive forever
- participating in an online/in person group or community specifically designed around dealing with grief after suicide
Tips for Managing Grief and Loss
Grieving a loss is an intensely personal process. It can be helpful to remember that there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to how you should express your grief – the only right way is however and whatever brings you comfort and healing in your own time.
ome tips may help ease the pain of suicide-related loss:
- allowing yourself space for emotions
- seeking out support from family or friends
- being mindful of thoughts/feelings as they arise
- self-care practices like yoga or mindfulness meditation
- getting enough sleep
Additionally, don’t forget professional resources, such as support groups or counselors. These can make a lot of difference during difficult times.
There’s no shame at all in seeking out extra help, if needed – you’re never alone.
How to Support Someone Who Has Lost a Loved One to Suicide
Supporting a loved one who has experienced the loss of another to suicide is no easy task and can leave you feeling helpless. However, it’s essential not just for them but also for yourself that you create an open environment where your friend or family member feels safe expressing their feelings without judgement.
Respect their journey and try offering practical help whenever possible such as making meals and going on walks together. Showing compassion with the understanding that everyone processes grief differently may go far in supporting those affected by this heartbreaking circumstance.
Read more about practical ways to help people in Acts of Kindess for People Who Are Grieving.
Common Reactions to Grief and Loss After a Suicide
Experiencing grief and loss is a difficult thing that nobody should have to go through alone. Following the death of someone close by suicide, it’s quite normal to feel emotions such as shock, guilt, anger or numbness, while thoughts of confusion and depression may also accompany these feelings.
But amidst this emotional storm there are important things you can do for yourself – be mindful of your needs during this time after a tragedy and remember that everyone experiences their own unique journey with grief – don’t pressure yourself into feeling “right” about any part in it.
It is important for us to not only acknowledge our own needs but also observe those around us who may require love and understanding during this period in their lives. It’s important that we take care of ourselves through difficult times like these – wherever our path towards healing should lead us!
Seeking Professional Help for Grief and Loss
Coping with the sadness of suicide can be daunting and you don’t have to go through it alone. From counselors who provide a listening ear, to therapists that explain techniques for working through this difficult time- there are professionals available to help guide you on your journey towards recovery.
Finding someone trustworthy and experienced in dealing with grief is key; creating a safe space where you feel comfortable sharing is essential on the road towards healing.
A quick search for “grief counselors near me” can bring up several options. You can also check with your insurance company for approved counselors.
Other options include:
Community and Online Support for Grief and Loss
Finding strength in a supportive community can be an invaluable resource for those struggling with grief and loss. Finding support groups – be they in-person or from the comfort of your own home – can make all the difference when navigating such an emotionally trying period.
Support groups such as online forums, chat rooms, or even local support groups are some of the ways to connect with others who understand the difficulties you’re facing. Connecting with others going through shared hardships can help with healing by providing distinct insight, unique perspectives and powerful bonds along every step of your journey.
Surrounding yourself with understanding and compassion during tough times is often key to navigating feelings of sorrow that come along when we lose someone close.
Where to find online support and communities:
- Churches Care
- Grieving.com
- Grief in Common
- Actively Moving Forward
- Hope Again
- Many hospitals and communities offer suicide prevention training courses
Find the Right Support for Your Grief and Loss
During life’s most difficult times, it is essential to be gentle with ourselves as we experience grief and loss in our own unique way.
While finding the right support can seem daunting, being mindful of personal needs during this time helps us find solace through any challenges that might arise. Moreover, reaching out for assistance should never feel like a burden – there are many people who genuinely want to lend their unconditional care and comfort when tackling these trying moments together.
Conclusion
Experiencing grief, pain and loss after a loved one’s suicide can be devastating. Your individual experience is completely unique, so it’s important to take the time you need to navigate your own journey of healing.
There are many strategies out there that may help in managing this difficult emotion, from support resources and professional assistance, through seeking solace with family and friends who understand your pain.
No matter what coping strategy resonates most with you at this challenging time, never forget that asking for help is ok, too.
Additional resource Suicide Prevention Resource Center
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