Mission Save a Life reposted this
Below are 5 ways to support a suicide loss survivor, but first sign up for an International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day event at afsp.org/survivorday. 💙 Don’t ask intrusive questions about how the person died: If the loss survivor does not bring up the suicide method, assume they would prefer not to talk about it. If they do mention how their loved one died, do not ask for details beyond those that the loss survivor volunteers. 💙 Be proactive about offering help: Offer help repeatedly and specifically. What everyday things that might be adding stress can you help with in the short term? Does the loss survivor need help running errands? Would they like someone to just sit with them for a while? 💙 Don’t place value judgments on the suicide: Do not refer to the suicide as a selfish choice, a sin, an act of weakness, or a lack of faith or love or strength. 💙 Be patient: Don’t place a timeline on the loss survivor’s grief; healing after a suicide loss is a lifelong journey. Well-intended though they may be, frequently heard phrases such as “This too shall pass,” and “You need to move on” can make the loss survivor feel pressured to “get over it.” 💙 Don’t assign or imply blame: In trying to answer the question of why, suicide loss survivors often place blame on themselves. Be careful not to say things or ask questions that might suggest they’re responsible for the suicide, whether directly or indirectly.