Reply To: Sister died in car accident 1 week ago… I know it was suicide

[onlinecommunity]

Dear @Bec, welcome to the forums. Our hearts go out to you for the loss of your sister and in such a sudden and traumatic way.

Right now, you are likely to be struggling with waves of conflicting emotions…sorrow, regret, anger, guilt, and fear – all common feelings following the loss of a loved one to suicide. The intensity of these feelings might be alarming. Just hang on and know that each wave will subside. With regards to feelings of guilt, this article might be helpful article – it’s from our Helping Hand topic.

It’s really important to be kind to yourself right now and consider yourself in need of “emotional intensive care”. You’ll need layers of support to help you through the days ahead. So try to reach out to helpful people and resources. There will be many people and organisations ready and willing to help you carry the burden of grief. Whether it be a friend or family member to help with day-to-day tasks and chores, an organised person to help with paperwork, a shoulder to cry on, or one of the many community organisations specialising in suicide postvention. These include; Jesuit Social Services through their Support After Suicide program, which runs in Melbourne and Regional Victoria; http://www.supportaftersuicide.org.au or Standby Support After Suicide based in NSW who offer face to face, phone, and online support; http://www.standbysupport.com.au. If neither of these suits your location, please feel free to email us direct: [email protected], and we will endeavor to help you with referrals.

@Bec, just by reaching out to our online community, you have engaged in self-care, and we admire your courage to do so. We hope that others in the community can support you by sharing their experiences, offering self-care strategies, or just being there.

Please keep in touch and know that you are not alone as you navigate the tough days ahead. We are here for you. 🌸