Language
Country/Area
No result found
The True Impact of Suicide Grief: Do You Know How Many Victims Are Behind Every Suicide?
Suicide is a major public health problem worldwide, with more than 800,000 individuals dying by suicide each year. Even more shocking is that according to recent studies, for every suicide, there are approximately 135 people who were directly related to the deceased and are deeply affected. These people are experiencing an emotional state called suicidal grief, which is significantly different from general feelings of loss.
According to Shneidman (1978), each suicide leaves behind six "survivor victims." However, this figure clearly underestimates the actual situation.
The Challenges of Suicidal Grief
People experiencing suicidal grief often face different challenges than those experiencing other types of grief. Research shows that those who have lost a loved one are more likely to experience emotions such as blame, stigma, shame and rejection. This can delay their healing process and cause longer-term emotional pain.
Complicated Grief
In some cases, symptoms of grief may not lessen over time, which is called complicated grief. According to research, 10 to 20 percent of suicide survivors may develop complicated grief, which can have a substantial impact on their daily lives. For example, they may be unable to engage in normal social interactions because of their emotional pain.
Stages of Grief
According to the theory of Swiss-American psychiatrist Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, the grieving process typically moves through five stages: denial, anger, transaction, depression and acceptance. However, these stages do not necessarily occur in a linear or sequential manner.
- Denial: Helps individuals alleviate the pain of loss.
- Anger: The process of adapting to the new reality, emotional pain gradually emerges.
- Transaction: An attempt to negotiate with a higher power, seeking a way out.
- Depression: Facing the reality of the loss and feeling sad, making it difficult to reach out to others.
- Acceptance: Acceptance of the loss is eventually reached, but it is still accompanied by sadness and regret.
Suicide risk
Suicidal grieving people are at higher risk of suicide than other bereaved people. Research shows that suicidal grievers are 1.6 times more likely to suffer from suicidal ideation, 2.9 times more likely to have a suicide plan, and 3.7 times more likely to attempt suicide.
This may lead them to view suicide as the only solution to escape the pain, and they may even wish to end their own life in the same manner as a way to find a connection with the deceased.
The problem of stigma
Although the stigma surrounding suicide has decreased, it still faces greater social stigma than other types of death. Many people are reluctant to discuss their loss experiences with others because they feel uncomfortable. Additionally, some religions’ attitudes toward suicide can further shame grievers and make it difficult for them to share their loss within religious communities. This stigma can hinder their recovery.
Treatment options
Support Groups
Attending a support group can provide a safe environment for people experiencing suicidal grief to express emotions and share experiences. These groups are often more effective than generalized loss support groups because participants feel understood and connected to others. Several organizations such as the International Association of Suicidal Grief (IASP) and the American Association of Suicidology (AAS) offer a variety of support groups to choose from.
Psychotherapy
Support groups alone may not fully address the reasons why some people develop mental illness. Suicidal grieving individuals should seek professional psychotherapy, working with a clinician with expertise in this area. A combination of education, psychotherapy, and medication is usually the most effective approach.
Complicated Grief Treatment
Treatment for complicated grief combines cognitive behavioral therapy, exposure, and motivational interviewing. This type of psychotherapy helps individuals process the acceptance of loss and improves life satisfaction and relationships with others.
These treatments are designed to help suicidal grieving individuals gradually overcome their pain and loss and reconnect with their lives. Ultimately, can we see the heavy impact these victims are experiencing and work to provide them with better support and understanding?
