Acknowledging the complex grief of suicide loss survivors
As International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day approaches on November 23, we honour the courage and vulnerability of those who share their stories and wisdom, helping others feel less alone in their grief.
While everyone experiences loss differently, many suicide loss survivors share common experiences. This loss often leads to complex grief, accompanied by specific thoughts and reflections.
In particular, people can struggle with the why. It's important to recognise that we may never fully know or understand what happened. Even if there were warning signs or concerning behaviours, we can't always understand exactly what our loved one was going through. And sometimes, there are no warning signs or visible symptoms.
Or sometimes those who have lost a loved one might feel an overwhelming sense of guilt, thinking “Why didn’t I see it? Why didn’t I ask about it?” These thoughts and feelings are common, but it's crucial to remember that you are not responsible. It’s not your fault.
These feelings are valid and natural, and it's important to acknowledge them rather than push them away. But we can also gently remind ourselves of what we know to be true.
It doesn't matter how you knew the person or how long ago you lost them. There are no rules about how you “should” feel. What is important is to remember to give yourself some grace. When we lose someone, regardless of their age, how they died, or our relationship with them, we need to allow ourselves to feel our emotions.
It's okay to grieve, be angry, and be confused – all these feelings are valid. And it’s okay to ask for help to find ways to cope with the grief.
SafeSide Prevention extends our heartfelt wishes for healing and peace to all loss survivors and their loved ones.
RELATED RESOURCES: