Coping With Suicide Loss
It can be so powerful to connect with other survivors. And such a relief to be able to talk openly about suicide with people who really understand the pain of losing a loved one to suicide.
For so many survivors, a crucial part of their healing process is the support and sense of connection they feel through sharing their grief with other survivors. The most common way this sharing occurs is through survivor support groups. This group provides a safe place where survivors can share their experiences and support each other.
Where Do I Start?
If you have lost someone to suicide, the first thing you should know is that you are not alone. Each year over 30,000 people in the United States die by suicide -- the devastated family and friends they leave behind are known as "survivors." There are millions of survivors who, like you, are trying to cope with this heartbreaking loss.
Survivors often experience a wide range of grief reactions, including some or all of the following:
* Shock is a common immediate reaction. You may feel numb or disoriented, and may have trouble concentrating.
* Symptoms of depression, including disturbed sleep, loss of appetite, intense sadness, and lack of energy.
* Anger towards the deceased, another family member, a therapist, or yourself.
* Relief, particularly if the suicide followed a long and difficult mental illness.
* Guilt, including thinking, "If only I had...."
* These feelings usually diminish over time, as you develop your ability to cope and begin to heal.
Coming from a family that has been devastated by multiple suicides, I have dealt with all aspects on a personal level...even coming close myself.
It has taken patience & love to talk to those that have given up, pulling them back from a seemingly endless fall to the bottom of hopelessness.
It also takes learning forgiveness to overcome suicide. Forgiving both the lost loved one, and yourself. Blame and regret is part of mourning, something we all must deal with, but we have to forgive to truly overcome the pain.
If you have been dealing with suicide in your life...please join SOS and find support. If you are someone that has overcome suicide and all it's lies...please join & help others find the same freedom.