Beijing Center for Psychological Crisis Research and Intervention WHO Collaborating Center for Psychological Crisis Prevention Research and Training International experts have found that for every suicide that occurs, an average of at least six people suffer severe adverse effects, leaving lasting emotional scars.This trauma affects their daily lives, work, and emotional well-being. Some struggle to emerge from the shadow cast by the deceased. We refer to those who have lost a loved one to suicide as bereaved relatives or friends of suicide victims. They often endure prolonged periods of grief, guilt, and self-blame.
Suicide is a global public health issue. Conservative estimates suggest that the suicide of a loved one reduces psychological, social, and occupational functioning among survivors by 20%, increasing the overall health burden attributable to suicide by 38%.One-quarter of the total disease burden attributable to suicide stems from the negative psychological and social impacts on families and loved ones. Therefore, it is crucial to prevent suicidal behavior whenever possible and mitigate its adverse consequences.Most developed countries have support groups for relatives and friends of suicide victims, which play an effective role in providing psychological and social support to those affected by suicide deaths or attempts. In China, the "Hand in Hand, Heart to Heart" Mutual Support Group for Relatives and Friends of Suicide Victims has been established for 18 years, benefiting many individuals.
If you are a friend of someone who has lost a loved one to suicide, please:
Listen without judgment
Help with manageable tasks (e.g., preparing water, meals, handling daily affairs)
Offer encouragement, support, and understanding
Respect their personal grief process and pace
Monitor their daily routines and emotional state
>If prolonged distress persists, encourage timely medical consultation
Provide relevant resources: support groups, community services, literature
Be mindful of sensitive periods: holidays, anniversaries
Offer assistance proactively while preparing for potential refusal
Avoid imposing personal expectations
Discourage major life decisions during the grieving process
Maintain consistent, patient support
>Be vigilant for suicide (ask directly), substance abuse, or medication misuse. >If you are a family member of the bereaved: >Respect each other's unique ways of grieving. >Encourage open expression of feelings; minimize blame. >Recognize that suicide causes are complex; allow time to process. >Feelings like self-blame, guilt, shock,anger are normal emotions
Offer each other encouragement and support
Avoid major decisions in the short term
Share memories of life with the deceased together
Take care of yourself
>Share your feelings openly (with family, friends, or professionals)
Respect each other's religious beliefs
Allow yourself and family to enjoy life
Seek diverse support to navigate the grieving process
Consult professionals when needed
You and your family are not alone in facing these emotions—consider joining support groups
>If you are a loved one of someone who died by suicide
Experiencing a loved one's suicide is profoundly difficult. The grief it brings is uniquely complex. As you navigate this sorrow,
we encourage you to:
Take care of yourself (eat regular meals, maintain your daily routine as much as possible)
Forgive yourself
> Keep a journal
Write letters to the deceased
Maintain connections with others
Share your experience with trusted individuals
Seek support from family members
Allow yourself to access professional help
Set boundaries and learn to say no
Express your emotions
Find meaning in the loss and build a new relationship with the departed.
Please do not
Fear normal reactions like guilt, anger, or forgetfulness (you're not crazy—you're grieving)
Avoid crying—tears are medicine for healing sorrow
Rush into major decisions
Live solely in the past—stay present
Use grief to stay connected to the departed
>If facing grief alone feels overwhelming, you are welcome to join the "Hand-in-Hand, Heart-to-Heart Mutual Support Group." Strive to move forward on your grief journey—you are not alone, many walk this path with you. Registration hotline: 010-62712221 (Monday to Friday, weekdays) (By Lang Junlian)