DEATH OF A CHILD AS A RESULT OF SUICIDE
Suicide can result in some very complicated feelings in those left to deal with the loss. In addition to grief, a death by suicide can often leave the bereaved feeling overwhelmed.
Such feelings can result in a sense of persecution and helplessness often with accompanying physical symptoms such as headaches, sleeping difficulties, loss of appetite and energy. All of this can impact adversely on the couple and family relationships
Such responses will often diminish with time, especially if the bereaved couple is able to connect with those whom they trust to talk about these difficult feelings. However, for some people, disturbing feelings can worsen over time. This is where specialist help may be needed.
How does this type of loss affect a couple?
Parents often experience a range of feelings including:
Shock, numbness, and confusion due to the suddenness/unexpectedness.
Anger with self /others and/ or the deceased.
Guilt/regret “I /we/they should have done something…”
Betrayed by the world and/or the deceased.
Shame “What will people think…”
Loneliness and isolation as the death feels unacceptable.
This can result in each seeing these responses in their partner while denying them in themselves.
Seeking Help
Penthos’ team of couple therapists specialize in helping parents manage and overcome the grief, stress, and trauma of losing a child through suicide.
Penthos was established to provide grieving parents with no-cost therapy.
If you would like to discuss this further or set up an appointment you can do this through our contact us page.