The Impact of Suicide on Friends and Family
The impact of suicide on family members and loved ones is devastating and long-lasting. Suicide is incredibly tough on those left behind, like family and friends. They're often called suicide survivors. When a loved one dies by suicide, it can leave family members and friends feeling shocked, confused, and overwhelmed with grief.
The Impact of Suicide on Loved Ones
The loss of a loved one to suicide can have a profound impact on mental health and can lead to a range of emotions, including sadness, anger, guilt, and shame. It can also increase the risk of developing depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The aftermath of suicide can also be challenging for family members and loved ones, who may struggle to make sense of the loss and find ways to cope with their grief. Many people report feeling isolated and unsupported in the aftermath of a suicide, as others may not know how to provide appropriate support.
In addition to the emotional toll, suicide can also have practical consequences for those left behind. For example, families may have to deal with the financial burden of funeral expenses and may need to navigate legal and administrative procedures related to the death.
Addressing Stigma Surrounding Suicide and Its Impact on Family and Friends
One of the most difficult aspects of suicide is the stigma that surrounds it. Friends and family members may feel ashamed or embarrassed to talk about what has happened, or they may worry about being judged by others. This can lead to feelings of isolation and can make it difficult to find the support they need to cope with their loss.
It is important for those affected by suicide to seek support from trusted friends and family members, as well as from mental health professionals. Counselling and therapy can help individuals work through their feelings of grief and guilt and can provide them with coping strategies for managing their emotions.
Support groups can also be a valuable resource for those affected by suicide. These groups bring together people who have experienced similar losses and provide a safe and supportive space for individuals to share their experiences and feelings.
While the impact of suicide on friends and family can be devastating, it is important to remember that healing and recovery are possible. With time, support, and self-care, individuals can learn to cope with their loss and find a way forward, although it’s important to remember that grief has no expiry date. Everyone will grieve in their own way and own time.
It is also important to work towards preventing suicide and promoting mental health awareness. This can involve supporting mental health organisations, advocating for mental health policies, and reaching out to friends and loved ones who may be struggling with their mental health.
The impact of suicide on friends and family is profound and long-lasting. It is important to seek support and resources to cope with the emotional and practical challenges that arise after a suicide. By working towards prevention and promoting mental health awareness, we can help to prevent future tragedies and support those affected by suicide.
Suicide Support for Families and Friends
Here are some resources and services related to suicide in Australia:
Lifeline Australia - Provides a 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention service. Phone: 13 11 14. Website: https://www.lifeline.org.au/
Beyond Blue - Offers information and support on mental health, including suicide prevention. Phone: 1300 224 636. Website: https://www.beyondblue.org.au/
Black Dog Institute - Focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder. Provides resources and support for people affected by suicide. Website: https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/
Suicide Call Back Service - Provides 24/7 telephone and online counselling to people at risk of suicide, their carers, and those bereaved by suicide. Phone: 1300 659 467. Website: https://www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au/
Headspace - Provides mental health support and services to young people aged 12 to 25, including suicide prevention. Website: https://headspace.org.au/
Kids Helpline - Provides 24/7 telephone and online counselling to children and young people aged 5 to 25, including those at risk of suicide. Phone: 1800 551 800. Website: https://kidshelpline.com.au/
MindSpot - Provides online assessment and treatment for people experiencing anxiety, depression, and related mental health problems, including suicide prevention. Website: https://mindspot.org.au/
R U OK? - A national suicide prevention charity that encourages people to have conversations with others who may be struggling with their mental health. Website: https://www.ruok.org.au/
SANE Australia - Provides information, resources, and support for people affected by mental illness, including suicide prevention. Phone: 1800 187 263. Website: https://www.sane.org/
The Australian Psychological Society - Provides a directory of registered psychologists in Australia who can provide mental health support, including for suicide prevention. Website: https://www.psychology.org.au/Find-a-Psychologist