Suicide is a traumatic event and in society is still often regarded as a taboo subject. The feelings of isolation and horror that this can impose on a family makes communication difficult and can hinder the grieving process.
The silence of others can further reinforce the family's sense of isolation and rejection. Consequently, opportunities to talk, grieve and begin to accept the reality of what has happened may be denied.
In circumstances where a family member has witnessed or discovered the suicide, recurrent and intrusive recollections of the event, particularly in dreams, may be a disturbing factor.
The fact that the person who died chose to end his/her own life can be especially painful for family members to come to terms with.
Family members may feel a sense of responsibility for the suicide, thinking they should somehow have prevented it. Living with this burden may lead them to become depressed. Anger is also a significant part of bereavement by suicide. However, there may also, in some situations, be relief at being released from the burden of living with someone who has been suicidal.
You may find the following information sheets useful: