With most other causes of death, it seems survivors have at least one source to “blame” for taking away a loved one, which can provide a sense of comfort and closure we humans so desperately need. Whether it’s blaming a life-threatening disease, an at-fault party in an accident, or a violent criminal, anger and sadness can be directed their way, allowing those left behind to focus on grieving the innocence of the one lost. Suicide isn’t so black ...
My Message for Survivors of Suicide
I was recently asked to share my grief journey on the survivors of suicide site, The Gift of Second. I wanted to share my video with our readers in an effort to offer insight and perspective on suicide, mental illness and grief. I have learned a lot about myself in the four years after losing my dad to suicide. While his death caused tremendous pain, it also led to a different outlook on life. Not only has his death made me a stronger, more ...
Facing the Discomfort of Tragedy
I’ve noticed a personal phenomenon lately as I scroll through my Facebook News Feed – I avoid or quickly bypass stories that make me feel uncomfortable. This is a highly subjective practice, knowing everyone has different emotional “triggers” - a term I learned in online forums. (I actually hate the word triggers since my dad took his life with a gun.) But, now I’m wondering if my avoidance of these tragic topics is making me a hypocrite. After ...
Reconciling with Anger after Loss to Suicide
Anger at and forgiveness of a loved one are among the most popular topics survivors of suicide raise on the blog. Today, we welcome guest blogger Brandy L., who discusses her ongoing battle with both following the loss of her mother.
In July of 1991, as a ten-year-old little girl, I walked into my house to find my mom dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Her letter goodbye said not much more than “goodbye and good luck.”
In 2006, I ...
Finding Strength after a Tragic Loss
After the loss of my dad to suicide, I remember many people commenting on my strength. I would think to myself, "You don't see me when the doors close." Strength was not a characteristic I would have used to describe myself in those moments following the tragic loss I experienced. Yet looking back, I do see the strength I posed. The strength to not allow life to completely knock me down. I think we all struggle to recognize our strength ...