Unravelling the Complex Journey of Suicide Bereavement

By Caroline Harroe (Harmless CEO)

Grappling with the loss of a loved one is always poignant, yet when that loss is a result of suicide, the severance amplifies the pain, mystery and guilt associated. Suicide bereavement is inherently complex, entwined with a gamut of emotions that can be challenging to interpret and process.

Psychologist Holly Prigerson’s work elucidates that traumatic grief following suicide bereavement manifests differently compared to other forms of grief. Frequent invasive thoughts about the deceased, immense guilt, the perpetual ‘why’ of the act, and the stigma often associated with suicide add layers to the complexity of suicide bereavement.

In many cases, the bereaved may face self-blame or guilt, continuously replaying ‘what if’ scenarios, which can lead to relentless emotional distress. The feelings of guilt and shame can intensify due to societal taboos and stigmas around suicide. This social silence can result in isolation, making it harder for bereaved individuals to seek support and express their feelings openly.

Additionally, fear and anxiety can occupy a significant space where the bereaved’s journey intersects with personal mental health concerns. Fear about genetic predisposition towards suicide or dealing with their own depression anxiety while mourning the loss can further complicate their grief process.

Importantly, each person’s journey through suicide bereavement is unique. The bereaved person’s relationship with the one who died, the circumstances surrounding the suicide, and their personal coping style all contribute to their particular experience.

The complexity of suicide bereavement necessitates a compassionate approach from society and mental health professionals. It’s important to promote conversations about suicide, bereavement following suicide, and mental health in general, to mitigate stigma and facilitate healing.

For further insights, refer to grief specialists like Holly Prigerson and Pauline Boss‘s work. And in any case of extreme emotional distress due to bereavement, professional psychiatric help should be sought immediately.

This article aims to introduce you to the complexity of suicide bereavement, but it is not comprehensive. Each individual’s bereavement journey is unique, and as such, experiences can vary widely.

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If you need support after bereavement by suicide, you are not alone:
The Tomorrow Project
Support After Suicide Partnership
AtaLoss

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