Losing someone close to suicide can shake you to your core. Although grieving the death of anyone close is challenging, when someone is lost to suicide, the grief can be massive and complex.
Even in such difficult situations, there is hope. Here are some things to consider when thinking about “what’s next?”
A Wave of Different Emotions
It is common for suicide-related grief to include a wide range of complex emotions. Sadness and sorry are often accompanied by regret, depression, and self-blame.
It Is Common to Experience a Rise of Questions
Suicides can generate as many questions as they do feelings of grief. “Why didn’t they reach out?” and “Why didn’t I see it coming?” and “What could I have done?” are all some of the answerable questions we may roll around in our thoughts.
Recognizing the Stigma of Suicide
There remain many stigmas to suicide that can be unfair. Suicides can still be painted as selfish, uncaring, or looking for an easy way out. Many of us now understand that suicide can often be the result of deep-seeded problems that may include mental health issues. Blaming the victim is unproductive.
Complications of Complex Grief
Suicides can be followed by complex grief issues that can be difficult to overcome. It can be accompanied by months-long depression, anxiety, trauma, and even PTSD.
Don’t Be Afraid to Seek Help
Many of those grieving suicide can find that seeking from others who have shared the experience can be helpful. Many have the same questions, a sense of loss, and a life filled with the unanswerable “Why?”
Acknowledging that Suicides often Have Underlying Health or Mental Health Issues
Many suicides are the result of physical or mental pain that the victim may view as unsolvable. Having a sense of empathy and understanding can be helpful in getting past the loss.
Grieve the Way that Works for You
Grieving a suicide is extremely personal. Give yourself permission to grieve in your own way at your own pace. It is a journey that is so personal that you may be faced with more questions than answers. You are not alone. Odds are that close family and friends are experiencing similar feelings and questions. Your feelings have validity.
Seek Professional Help When Necessary
If you are struggling, seek the help of a group or a professional. Talk when you are ready to share while giving yourself time to move forward when ready.
Explaining Suicide to Children
Suicide can be particularly confusing for children. Truthful discussions on the appropriate age level can help.
Remembering a Loved One
Too often, suicides are forgotten. They deserve to be honored, remembered, and respected. Even an annual luncheon in their honor can keep their memory alive and honored.
If you are facing the unexpected death of a loved one, experienced, caring, and professional help can be critical. At Fares J. Radel Funeral Homes and Crematory, we help families in a variety of difficult situations. We can assist you in planning respectful final circumstances in a variety of situations. Please reach out to us when you need assistance.
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