How to Cope After a Loved One Has Committed Suicide
Coping with a loved one's suicide is difficult, but there are things you can do to help you through the process.
Step1
Allow yourself to go through your feelings about the death. Normal and predictable feelings you may have include shock, anger, denial, depression and anxiety.
Step2
Let go of any self-blame you may have. Beating yourself up is taking too much responsibility for someone else's actions.
Step3
Get help by joining a support group for survivors of suicide or talking to a psychotherapist.
Step4
Nurture yourself. Give yourself plenty of time and space to relax, take it easy and do whatever helps you feel better, such as taking walks, baths or naps; drinking tea; listening to music; reading.
Step5
Take any pressure or expectations off yourself to "get over it" quickly. Grief can last from weeks to months or longer.
Step6
Talk to your doctor about possibly taking medicine if you're having trouble sleeping or are experiencing anxiety or depression. Or discuss the options of herbal supplements such as St. John's Wort (for depression) or kava kava (for anxiety) with your health care provider.
