Suicide and the route to recovery.
The impact of suicide is felt by family, loved ones, friends and the community. For those left behind they can be haunted by questions and guilt. The search for meaning trough’s up endless questions such as “why”, “could I of stopped them”, “did I listen, hear, understand”, “do they know I loved them”. The never ending cycle of questions that may never be answered can leave a void of isolation and despair that cuts to the very sole of those who are left behind.
The emotional consequences of such a loss can bring about an array of feelings including anger, guilt and despair. Although one may never find a sense of who they used to be, many find renewed strength and outlook that can see them overcome the pain and find a new perspective to life. Reaching out to friends and family, asking for help and sharing your feelings are vital. Most find it best to acknowledge openly that their loved one committed suicide, in so doing it can make talking about it easier for both yourself and others who want to help but are afraid of saying the wrong thing. When ready, getting your routine back, staying active and social, joining support groups and possibly therapeutic intervention are all important aspects of the recovery process.
The truth is everyone grieves in their own ways, there is no set time to coming to terms with such a lose and so you need to be kind and good to yourself. Yours is a pain that goes beyond most others and so accepting and acknowledging its impact on you and your family is important. If children are involved ensure that their grief is acknowledged, assure them that no one is at fault, and give them time to share their understanding and ask questions which should be answered honestly and age appropriately. You and your family might find it beneficial to hold a memorial for your loved one, celebrate their life in someway each year. When the time comes to move on never feel ashamed to find your happiness again, finding such happiness is a sign of healing, you deserve it and your loved ones I am sure would want you to be happy.
Mark Reddy
Edited by The Irish Independent
