Today is International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day. Often, when we think about suicide, we think about the lost individual’s pain. We think about the darkness that surrounded them. The stigma of suicide can heighten the distress from the loss, as everyone affected will process the experience differently. For those who have experienced loss from suicide, so many emotions can be felt with so many unanswered questions.
Survivors of loss by suicide are often left with their own questions about life, loss, and search for meaning. Others may experience guilt around the possible prevention of this loss. Anger may be experienced at being left behind as this relationship was so deeply meaningful to us. The pain of loss by suicide can be a complex experience to navigate with no timeline for the grief and struggles associated with it.
Many of us are no stranger to this non-linear experience of grief and understand that it is often accompanied by immediate needs for care and support. It can also be influencing our lives at later times, as the experience can leave deep wounds with discomfort or distress that ask for attention and healing.
At KSRC, we understand that each loss is unique, just as unique as you and the lost individual. We will meet you in your own needs and experience of this type of grief, with many of us having closely experienced this type of loss. Suicide Loss Survivors, we see you, we make space for every part of you. No matter the experience, we are here to be with you.
Karine
