Citation

Trimble T, Hannigan B, Gaffney M. Ir. J. Psychol. 2012; 33(2-3): 115-121.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2012, Irish Journal Of Psychology)

DOI

10.1080/03033910.2012.709171

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

It has been estimated that for every death by suicide, there are at least six bereaved people left behind. Ten participants, five male and five female bereaved by the suicide of a close family member, completed a qualitative questionnaire on postvention experiences. Postvention activities are defined as those which are helpful, supportive and appropriate for individuals bereaved by suicide. Postvention is regarded by some as prevention for the future. Losing a close friend or family member by suicide is often one of many features which are considered risk factors in assessing suicidality in an individual. Survivors are susceptible to a range of mental health difficulties, including further suicidal ideation. Many studies on postvention have focused on grief and pathologies, as opposed to highlighting the aspects of impact, coping and latterly, the potential for psychological survival and transformation. Based on survivor accounts, factors have been identified which contribute towards the experience of bereaved individuals in accessing social, community and professional supports. Key themes include: helpfulness of social supports, support groups as a vehicle to contextualise and normalise feelings, desire for understanding and knowledge from professionals, acknowledgement of traumatic nature of bereavement. These findings lead to important and much needed empirical and clinical practise-informed recommendations for mental health professionals engaged in service provision and treatment with individuals, families and organisations. The study finds that trauma focused interventions may benefit survivors who also report the desire for greater access to networks and the further development of proactive networks of support. It is clear from the foregoing that postvention supports, using protocols developed from key research, can go some way in reducing the impact of suicide.