Coping with Loss After Suicide

Losing a friend, partner or family member to suicide is a deeply challenging experience that can leave lasting impacts. As a student survivor, you may be navigating overwhelming emotions unlike anything you've faced before. While there's no easy way to navigate grief, understanding what you might go through and accessing helpful resources can be invaluable.

Understanding Grief

Grief following a suicide is intense and overwhelming. As you navigate through grief, your feelings will evolve. No two people experience loss the same way. Common emotions that you may experience during the process of grief include:

Shock: Feeling detached is a natural response to trauma. It helps you function amidst overwhelming emotions.
Denial: Refusing to accept the death's reality is common, especially if details are unclear. Gradually, acceptance and processing will begin.
Guilt: Mistakenly blaming yourself is typical; it's essential to understand you can't control everything.
Sadness: Intense feelings of depression, hopelessness and self-pity can emerge. Gradual acceptance allows for a mix of emotions.
Anger: Anger towards the person lost or circumstances can surface. Accepting this emotion helps process the loss.
Acceptance: Ultimately, healing involves accepting the event's tragic nature while cherishing memories.

What Makes Suicide Different

Suicide loss differs from other losses, often due to stigma, complex emotions and the need for understanding.

Stigma and Isolation: Discussing suicide can be hard due to cultural, religious or personal reasons. This may lead to feelings of isolation. Seek a supportive network or professional help if these feelings occur.
Mixed Emotions: Mourning after suicide can involve complicated emotions due to circumstances. Healing may be more intricate.
Needing to Understand Why: Wanting answers is natural, but some questions may remain unanswered. Seeking professional help is recommended.
Risk for Survivors: Suicidal thoughts can affect survivors temporarily, seek mental health support if needed.

Coping with Grief

Healing doesn't mean forgetting, but it involves growth and surviving. Ways to cope include:

Seek Support: Reach out to good listeners—friends, family, professionals. Support provided by the Counseling and Mental Health Center can help.
Be Patient: Show patience to yourself and others. Healing takes time and it's okay to set boundaries.
Stay Present: Embrace each moment and its emotions. Mindfulness techniques and relaxation can be useful.
Express Yourself: Share your feelings with others or privately, possibly through journaling.
Have Fun: Engage in social events and pleasant activities.
Establish Routine: Build structure and routine back into your life.
Take Care of Yourself: Eat well, exercise and avoid substances that hinder healing.

Telling Others About Your Loss

Talking about suicide can be challenging due to stigma. Decide what you're comfortable sharing and respond as needed. Remember that healing takes time and resources are available for both academic and emotional support. If grief persists intensely, seek professional help. Your journey is unique and healing is possible over time.