Caring for the Survivors - LPNI

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Caring for the Survivors

LPNI Health Topic – November 2021

When a loved one dies by suicide, the ones left behind, the survivors, are dealing with a loss that’s traumatic. The loss can come with stigma, real or perceived. The grieving person or family can feel isolated from people they considered their support. This all can result in survivors being stuck in their grief for years, missing out on support that can help them heal from the loss. How can we extend care to survivors?

Dispel the myths and stigma that can come with the topic of suicide.

Plan an activity for survivors on International Suicide Survivor Day, which is the third Saturday in November. Hold a workshop on suicide prevention for all in the community, or host an event that includes a panel of suicide survivors to share their stories.

Have materials available that give accurate information about suicide prevention and how to show support to those grieving from a suicide-related loss. Convey the message that you are approachable on this topic, that you aren’t afraid to talk about suicide and the resulting grief.

Place compassionate messages in the church newsletter, encouraging people to talk to someone at the church and/or get connected to the help they need.

Reach out to survivors and connect them to resources. Make sure you know the local resources and have brochures available in your office and in bathroom brochure racks. Post local resources on the bulletin board, such as details about a suicide survivor support group and the suicide prevention crisis line.

Send cards and make calls to them on days that could be more painful, such as the anniversary of the death and the loved one’s birthday.

Invite them to coffee and give them time to talk. Listen without judgement. Offer to connect them to counseling resources.

Encourage their participation in a support group, or connect them to other survivors. Survivors can be at higher risk for dying by suicide.

Learn the signs and what to do.

Be willing to be there for them and know how to connect them to resources.

If you sense they are struggling, share your concern and take time to listen. If need be, stay with them until they get the help they need.

Learn your local suicide prevention crisis lines and put the number in your cell phone contact list. This will make it easier to share the number with others or to make the call when you need guidance for someone you’re helping.

Go to this link for resources and for a printable card “Do you know someone who may be considering suicide?” https://www.who.int/health-topics/suicide#tab=tab_1

Spend time in God’s word to understand God’s perspective on this topic, to be filled with his wisdom and compassion. Follow God’s leading on how to extend care to survivors. Pray to see the needs through God’s eyes and how he would have you respond.

Keep educating yourself on suicide prevention and on supporting suicide survivors. Stay current on available resources. God is faithful and will equip you to share the message of love and hope with those who are struggling with thoughts of suicide and with survivors who are struggling in their grief.

May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word. (2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 NIV)

Christine Blanke, RN, MS, CPH Nebraska District Representative for Parish Nursing/ Congregational Health Advocates Seward, NE 68434 USA Blanke.christine189@gmail.com