Suicide Resource Center of Larimer County

EMERGENCY CONTACT
1-800-273-TALK
(1-800-273-8255)

GRIEF FOLLOWING SUICIDE
There is no right or wrong way to grieve. Every person grieves in his/her own way.
At different times, people may feel:

-Sadness	-Loss
-Denial	-Anger
-Relief	-Shame
-Guilt	-Fear
-Fatigue	-Disconnected from reality

The stigma surrounding suicide can isolate families. Often, family members can become isolated from each other as they each struggle to grieve in their own way.
There are no time limits to grief.

Ways to Help Those Who Have Lost a Loved One

-Surround them with as much love and understanding as you can.
-Let them talk. Usually they are not looking for answers or advice, but just want to voice their thoughts, feelings…
-Allow them to express their grief.
-Let them cry.
-Be prepared to listen to their anger and pain.
-Allow them to talk about their loved ones freely.
-Encourage the family to make decisions together.
-Expect them to tire easily. Grieving is hard work.
-Give them private time.
-Offer to help make or receive phone calls. Or assist with bills, mail, people who call, bring food…
-Continue to provide help and support in the days and months ahead.
-Don't be afraid to ask how a person is doing, even months or years later. It doesn't "remind" them, it opens the door for them to talk.
-Don’t be afraid to use the name of the person who died. Celebrate their memory.

IN LARIMER COUNTY, GRIEF SUPPORT SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE FROM:

-Suicide Resource Center of Larimer County
-Hospice of Larimer County
(Grief Counseling for groups, individuals, families and children)

970/635-9301

970/663-3500 or visit www.hlchospice.org