Survivors of Suicide
Losing someone to suicide can be a heartbreaking and traumatic experience, and making an attempt yourself can be equally overwhelming and emotionally charged.
However, it’s important to remember that you are not alone in your struggle, and help is available to you. There are numerous resources and support groups specifically designed to provide comfort and assistance to those who have been directly affected by suicide. These resources can not only offer practical guidance and emotional support but also a sense of community and belonging with others who have experienced similar struggles. Whether it’s talking to a trained therapist, reaching out to a support group, or sharing your story with others, there are plenty of ways to get the help and care you need during these challenging times. Remember, healing is possible, and there is hope for a brighter future.
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is here for you 24/7, providing completely free and confidential support to anyone who needs it.
Call or text 988, or go to 988Lifeline.org to chat now!
Suicide Attempt Survivors
It’s important to remember that even when things feel their darkest, there is always hope for a brighter tomorrow. Surviving a suicide attempt can be an incredibly difficult experience, but with the right support and resources, it is possible to heal and find a path forward.
How You Can Help Yourself
1.
Find an activity you enjoy.
Remember to take care of yourself – that’s super important! There are tons of ways to practice self-care, like taking walks, taking baths, or reading your favorite book. Just do whatever makes you happy and feel good!
2.
Reach out to someone.
You don’t have to carry the weight of suicidal thoughts by yourself, and there is hope and help available. Remember, leaning on your loved ones, connecting with a therapist or support group, or dialing 988 can make a world of difference.
3.
Make a safety plan.
Have a step-by-step plan ready for when you feel depressed, suicidal, or in crisis. Then, you can start at step one and continue through the steps until you feel safe.
4.
Find a counselor.
You’re a survivor. Seeking counseling can help you find long-term strategies for emotional well-being. A counselor can provide tools to cope with pain and work through underlying issues. Believe in your resilience and trust that with time and support, you’ll find a brighter future.
Support Groups
for Suicide Attempt Survivors
Suicide Loss Survivors
If you have lost a loved one to suicide, you are not alone. There are local and national resources available to help survivors of suicide loss cope.
How You Can Help Yourself
1.
Find a support group.
You’re not alone. Communities of people who’ve experienced similar losses offer support and empathy. There are support groups catered to suicide loss to help you heal, move forward and feel less isolated.
2.
Do what feels right for you.
Take your time to open up about your loss. Sharing your feelings can result in better support from your loved ones. It’s okay to take things one day at a time, trust in your support system, believe in yourself and know that healing is a journey.
3.
Write what you feel.
Write a letter to your loved one who has passed away to honor their memory and ease your pain. It’s a safe space to express everything in your heart and can help with healing through your grief journey. You are not alone, take small steps to cope and look forward to brighter days. Keep going and take the time needed to heal.
4.
Ask for help.
Asking for help is a sign of strength. Reach out to friends, family, or a therapist. People care and want to help. Don’t hesitate to take advantage and prioritize your mental health. Keep going, you’ve got this!
How You Can Help Someone Else
1.
Accept their feelings.
You can positively impact a suicide-loss survivor’s life. Offer non-judgmental support with compassion and patience. Your kindness & understanding can help them heal. Remember self-care & seek help when necessary.
2.
Use sensitivity during certain events.
Holidays and special occasions can bring back memories of our loved ones, but you can approach them positively, honoring and celebrating their lives. Cherish their memories and find comfort in other’s company. Together, you can carry their legacy forward with love and joy.
3.
Use the lost loved one’s name.
It’s essential to use the name of the person who has passed away when communicating with their loved ones. By doing so, you validate their loss and acknowledge their grief. Remembering the person who has died can be comforting to those left behind and can help keep their memory alive. Talking about death is often difficult, but by using the name of the deceased, you are demonstrating your support and understanding. It also shows that you acknowledge the significance of their loved one’s life and the impact they had on those around them. So, don’t be afraid to talk about the person who has passed away, and keep their memory alive through your words and actions.
