What is a suicide grief support group?
It is a form of mutual self-help where those bereaved get together with others to share their experiences in dealing with their loss. Groups may be peer-led by a volunteer who is also a suicide griever or they may be led by a professional. Groups may be open-ended or closed-ended. The former meets once or twice a month on an ongoing basis throughout the year. It may be joined at any time and discussions are “open.” The latter usually run for several weeks at various times during the year. There are set discussion topics. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention maintains a national list of suicide loss support groups by state. Why are suicide loss support groups effective? The NY State Office of Mental Health gives four reasons that support groups are effective : • Normalization. One of the most significant and helpful realizations for a survivor of suicide to have is that his feelings are normal, given the situation. In a group setting, it is reassuring to hear that others share
