Finding Hope in the Darkness: Surviving a Loss by Suicide
Trigger warning: loss, suicide
Losing someone you love is one of the most difficult and painful experiences anyone can face - and unfortunately inevitable. The aftermath of grief and pain can be overwhelming. The loss due to suicide can be even more complicated and intense, as there are so many questions. Suicide is a complex issue that can be challenging to comprehend, leaving those affected feeling helpless, hurt and even angry. The emotions of guilt, anger, and sadness can be all-consuming, leaving many struggling to find a way forward.
It is vital to recognise that experiencing the loss of a loved one to suicide can result in unique grief, which can feel unbearable and isolating. The sense of unfinished business, unanswered questions, shock, and disbelief can make one feel alone in their suffering. Nevertheless, it is crucial to understand that help is available, and one is not alone in this difficult time.
Suicide not only affects the person who died but also the loved ones left behind. It can be a devastating experience that can make one feel trapped with no way out. However, it is essential to comprehend that resources are available to help navigate the pain and grief associated with the loss of a loved one to suicide. Seeking support can be a crucial step in healing and moving forward.
The Importance of Seeking Support
Experiencing the loss of a loved one to suicide can feel like a lonely and isolating experience. It can be difficult to find someone who understands the depth of your pain, but it's important to know that you don't have to go through it alone.
Getting support can be a vital step in your healing process. There are many ways to reach out, such as talking to a trusted friend or family member who can offer a compassionate ear. You could also seek professional assistance from a therapist or consider joining a support group where you can connect with others who have gone through similar experiences.
In the United Kingdom, several charities provide resources and support to those who have lost someone to suicide. These organisations recognise the importance of having a safe space to discuss your emotions and offer practical advice to help you deal with your loss. Samaritans, for example, is a 24/7 helpline that offers emotional support to those struggling to cope. Mind offers various services, including counselling, advice, and information for people affected by suicide. Cruse Bereavement Care is another organisation that provides one-to-one support, group sessions, and telephone support to those bereaved by suicide.
It's essential to realise that seeking help does not imply that you are weak or incapable of handling things by yourself. Recognising that you need assistance and taking the necessary steps to seek it out takes strength and courage. With the help of others, you can find solace and a sense of community during this challenging period and begin to rebuild your life with renewed hope.
Honouring Your Loved One's Memory
Finding ways to honour your loved one's memory can also be a helpful part of the healing process. This can take many forms, from creating a memory box to planting a tree in their name. Some people find comfort in making a donation to a charity that was important to their loved one or setting up a fundraiser in their memory.
At EverWith, we offer a range of personalised memorial jewellery, keepsakes, and gifts that can be engraved with your loved one's name or a special message. These items can be a tangible reminder of your loved one and can provide comfort during times of grief.
Moving Forward with Hope
After experiencing the loss of a loved one to suicide, it can seem daunting to move forward with hope. However, it's essential to remember that there are ways to find hope and start the healing process. Though it may be challenging, with the appropriate support, you can gradually begin to move forward.
It's essential to understand that the grief of losing a loved one to suicide may never entirely dissipate. The loss may leave a permanent void in your heart. Nevertheless, it's possible to learn to manage the pain and find ways to live a fulfilling life alongside it.
Seeking support from a therapist or support groups such as The New Normal (who offer support for those specifically on a complicated grief journey) is an excellent way to begin the journey towards healing. A therapist can help you process your emotions and develop coping strategies for the complex emotions that come with losing a loved one to suicide. Support groups provide a safe space to connect with others who share similar experiences. They offer comfort, community, and a sense of belonging that can help ease feelings of isolation.
Taking care of yourself both physically and mentally is essential when moving forward with hope. Engaging in activities that bring you joy, getting enough rest, and consuming nutritious foods are some examples of self-care. Along with this, setting achievable goals, no matter how small, can help you remain focused on the present and provide a sense of purpose.
It's important to remember that everyone's journey towards healing is unique, and there is no correct way to grieve. It's crucial to take the time you need to process your emotions and move forward positively. With support and the willingness to take small steps towards healing, it's possible to find hope and a sense of purpose after experiencing the devastating loss of a loved one to suicide. If you're struggling to cope with the loss of a loved one to suicide, it's important to know that you're not alone. Seeking support and finding ways to honour your loved one's memory can be important steps in the healing process. And always remember, there is hope for a brighter tomorrow.
