Why should I protect myself after a suicide

Unfortunately, most people do not know much about suicide, and are hesitant to even talk about it. Others may be insensitive or make intentionally hurtful or cruel statements such as: “Your sister killed herself because she was crazy“. In many countries, there is still a very strong stigma associated with suicide. It is important that you protect yourself.

Be careful who you tell about the suicide. You would undoubtedly have family members and friends who you trust and can open your soul to about the suicide. But if people come to know about it through rumors and ask about your loved one; if you do not want to talk about it, you can say “I prefer not to talk about that”, or say something similar to politely rebuff them. Do not let anyone push you into talking about something that you are not comfortable with.

Give yourself time to heal. Stay away from anyone or anything that could cause problems for you. Stay away from people and places that bother you. If anyone says anything offensive, get away from them as quickly as possible.

Later on, well after the shock wears off, and you are feeling better, you can confront ignorant people when they are insensitive about suicide. But this is not until you are feeling mentally and emotionally stronger, and have worked through much of your grief.

Sources

• Felicitas Heyne, Psychologist
• Audiopedia ID: en020920