Suicide Prevention 41 If you are very new to the tragedy of suicide loss, despair may be your companion.We hope you find some time to rest your burden and share it with those of us who need no explanation. You are not alone. The fact that someone died by suicide does not diminish our love for them, their value, the contribution they made to our families and communities and our right and need to celebrate and honour their lives and accomplishments. It is how a person lived, not how they died, that defines someone. People who are impacted by suicide loss are the most courageous people we know. Be well, be peaceful, be hopeful. Normal Reactions to Suicide Loss Shock and Numbness Suicide bereavement is one of the most intensely painful experiences you are likely to undergo.The pain may be so overwhelming initially, that your natural defence mechanism shuts down. At some point the numbness leaves and you will need to go through the pain that is buried. Deep Sadness Deep sadness is normal. Other common feelings experienced may include helplessness, hopelessness, fear, failure, anxiety, depression, rejection and abandonment. Anger and Blame Anger and blame may be directed towards those you perceive to have been at fault. These may include doctors, counselors, friends, family, yourself or even the person that died. Guilt Survivors of suicide often feel they missed or ignored earlier warning signs of distress. Hindsight plays a role in this. Others may have decided to give up trying to help as they needed distance to keep themselves healthy. Image by freepik.com cont’d SUPPORT FOR PEOPLE LIVING WITH LOSS
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