Beyond Surviving
Survivors are those friends and family left behind following the death of a loved one by suicide. Being a survivor isn’t easy, but it can help to keep these suggestions and strategies in mind:
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It may not feel like it, but survival is possible.
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Take one day at a time, or even one moment.
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Remember, the choice was not yours. No one is the sole influence on another’s life.
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Be aware of the difficulties others may be having.
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Be patient with yourself and others who may not understand.
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Try to put off major decisions if possible, for at least several months.
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Support groups can be helpful. Ask a professional to help you find one or to start one if there aren’t any in your area.
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Personal faith can be an important part of coping.
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Find a good listener, and call someone if you need to talk.
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Seek professional help if you want or need it.
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It’s okay to struggle with “why” it happened.
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Give yourself permission to cry.
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Intense feelings are normal, and they may come and go.
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Anger, guilt, confusion, and forgetfulness are common experiences related to mourning.
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It’s okay to express appropriate anger – at the person, at yourself, at the situation.
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Suicidal thoughts are common, but it is important to remind yourself that having them doesn’t mean you will act on them.
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Physical reactions to grief, such as headaches, loss of appetite, or difficulty sleeping, are common.
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Work through your questions, anger, guilt, or other feelings until you can let them go.
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When you’re able, allow yourself to laugh and experience positive emotions.