Losing a loved one to suicide can be a deeply painful and traumatic experience. Processing and knowing what to do next in that situation can be overwhelming and complex. The biggest thing to keep in mind is that you are not alone and there are resources available to support and help navigate the grieving process and find healing.
Reach Out to Friends and Family
It is important to lean on your support system through this difficult time. Reach out to family and friends who can listen and provide comfort when you need to talk. Talk about how you’re feeling and share memories of the loved one to honor their life. This will help in processing and grieving. Surrounding yourself with others that are feeling and understand your pain can bring great comfort, solace and support after suicide.
Connect with Support Groups
Connecting with suicide loss support groups is another resource to navigate the aftermath of losing a loved one to suicide. Talking and interacting with people who have experienced similar losses can provide validation and understanding. It allows you to learn from other’s experiences and what tools they used to cope. Sharing your story can also be a very powerful healing moment. Support groups for suicide can be in-person or online and foster an environment that is non-judgmental, helping you gain insights and learn from others who are also on the path to healing.
Seek Professional Help
Consider seeking help from mental health professionals, such as therapists of counselors, who specialize in grief or bereavement. Talking with a professional about the complex emotions that arise after a suicide can be a huge help in the healing process. They offer a safe space to express your emotions, help you develop coping tools and find ways to rebuild your life. Professionals can also help navigate emotions like guilt, anger or confusion that may arise after losing a loved one to suicide.
Use Crisis Helplines
If you feel you are in immediate distress and need to speak with someone urgently, helplines and crisis services can be invaluable resources. There are suicide prevention hotlines and mental health crisis lines that offer compassionate support around the clock. If you need guidance, a listening ear or practical advice these trained professionals can provide that. Talking with someone can help you process the range of intense emotions you may be feeling. It is so important to remember that there are people to support you and to reach out when you are struggling. You are able to call or text the suicide prevention hotline number at 988.
Finding Support Following the Suicide of a Loved One
Losing a loved one to suicide is one of the most difficult things to experience. It can be draining emotionally, physically and mentally but it is important to reach out for support during this time of need. Seek out friends, family, professionals, support groups and helplines to find guidance and understanding. Remind yourself that healing is a gradual process and will not happen overnight. Be patient and kind with yourself as you navigate through grief. While the pain may never fully go away, with time and support, you can begin to find meaning and purpose in life again.
TRAUMA SCENE CLEANUP
Mindful of emotional trauma, our team will quickly, safely, and discreetly clean and disinfect homes to help families move forward and begin the healing process. Contact Aftertime-Bio for additional information.
