Losing a loved one to suicide is a deeply profound and heart-wrenching experience that can have a lasting impact on the survivors left behind. In the United States, the issue of suicide is not only a personal tragedy but also a significant public health concern. According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the country. The devastating effects ripple through families, friends, and entire communities, highlighting the urgent need for support and understanding.

This article serves as a compassionate resource, offering guidance and solace to those who have experienced the unimaginable pain of suicide loss. It acknowledges the complex range of emotions, questions, and challenges that survivors face in the aftermath of such a tragic event. Grief, guilt, confusion, anger, and profound sadness are just a few of the overwhelming emotions that may be experienced, often leaving individuals feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to navigate the healing journey.

The goal of this article is to provide insights, resources, and strategies to help survivors find their way through the intricate process of grieving and ultimately finding hope. It recognizes that healing is a deeply personal and individual journey, with no set timeline or roadmap. However, by offering support and guidance, it is possible to find moments of solace and to gradually rebuild a sense of purpose and joy in life. But always seek professional help if you need to.

Understanding the Scope of Suicide in the United States

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States, with over 47,500 suicides reported in 2019 alone. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) estimates that for every suicide, there are approximately 135 people directly affected, which amounts to millions of Americans touched by suicide loss each year.

The Unique Challenges of Suicide Loss

Survivors of suicide loss often face unique challenges due to the stigma surrounding suicide. Society's misunderstanding and judgment can complicate the grieving process, leaving survivors feeling isolated, blamed, or unable to openly discuss their loss. It is important for individuals and communities to foster understanding, compassion, and support for those affected by suicide loss.

Finding Healing and Support

In the aftermath of suicide loss, seeking professional help is crucial. Grief counselors, therapists, and mental health professionals experienced in dealing with bereavement can provide invaluable support. These professionals can guide survivors through the complex emotions, help them develop coping strategies, and offer a safe space for processing their grief.

• Connecting with Support Groups

Joining a support group specifically designed for suicide loss survivors can offer a powerful source of comfort and understanding. In these groups, individuals can share their experiences, listen to others' stories, and find solace in knowing they are not alone. Organizations such as the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) and local chapters of Survivors of Suicide (SOS) provide resources and information on support groups available across the country.

• Engaging in Self-Care

Self-care plays a vital role in the healing process after suicide loss. Engaging in activities that promote physical, emotional, and mental well-being can help survivors cope with their grief. This can include exercise, spending time in nature, practicing mindfulness or meditation, and engaging in hobbies or creative outlets. Taking care of oneself is not selfish but essential for healing and rebuilding a sense of hope and purpose.

Finding Meaning and Hope

• Embracing the Legacy

In the face of tragedy, finding meaning can be a powerful catalyst for healing. Honoring the memory of the loved one lost to suicide through actions such as advocacy, volunteering, or participating in suicide prevention efforts can help survivors find purpose and make a positive impact in their community. As one survivor shared, "By sharing my story, I hope to raise awareness and prevent others from experiencing the same pain I went through."

• Cultivating Resilience

Grieving the loss of a loved one to suicide is a journey that requires resilience. It's important to remember that healing takes time and that everyone's process is unique. Seeking support from loved ones, engaging in therapy, and practicing self-compassion can help survivors develop resilience and gradually rebuild their lives.

Coping with suicide loss is an arduous and deeply personal journey, but it is not one that survivors have to face alone. Through seeking professional help, connecting with support groups, and engaging in self-care, survivors can find healing, hope, and strength. Remember, as one survivor expressed , "Healing doesn't mean forgetting; it means finding a way to carry our loved ones with us as we move forward."

If you or someone you know is in crisis or struggling with thoughts of suicide, please reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) in the United States.

Rebecca is a writer and artist based in Brighton in the UK. She loves to explore mental health through both her writing and art, and has won awards for her creations. Rebecca has written for EverWith for over 2 years, and has said it has helped her to navigate her own journey through grief. Her favourite of our products is the Ladies Bijou Memorial Ashes Ring, which she wears fondly.