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Bereavement by Suicide

What is bereavement by suicide?

Losing someone to suicide is one of the hardest experiences anyone can go through. Grief after suicide can be different from other bereavements. It often comes with shock, unanswered questions, guilt, anger and sometimes stigma.

In construction, many workers have lost a colleague, a mate, or a family member to suicide. Those affected are themselves at higher risk of mental health problems and suicidal thoughts, so support matters.

What are the common reactions?

1. Emotional reactions:

  • Shock and disbelief.
  • Guilt, and asking "what if" or "why didn't I see it".
  • Anger at the person, at others, or at yourself.
  • Feeling rejected or abandoned.
  • Deep sadness and longing.

2. Physical reactions:

  • Trouble sleeping and eating.
  • Exhaustion.
  • Feeling on edge.

3. Social reactions:

  • Feeling isolated, or that others avoid you.
  • Finding it hard to talk about how the person died.

4. When to get extra help:

  • If you are having thoughts of suicide yourself.
  • If you are drinking or using drugs to cope.
  • If you are struggling to function months later.

What are the statistics for bereavement by suicide in the UK?

Wider impact: Research suggests that each suicide can affect up to 135 people, including family, friends, colleagues and those who witness it.

Risk: People bereaved by suicide are at increased risk of suicide themselves.

Support: Many areas of the UK now have suicide bereavement support services, often available soon after a death.

Where to get help after a suicide UK?

Always call 999 if you are in need of urgent help.

Support After Suicide Partnership: A hub of support services for anyone bereaved or affected by suicide.
Website: https://supportaftersuicide.org.uk/

Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide (SoBS): Peer support for adults bereaved by suicide.
Helpline: 0300 111 5065

Cruse Bereavement Support:
Helpline: 0808 808 1677

Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity: Support for construction workers and families, including after a colleague's death.
Helpline: 0345 605 1956 (24/7)

Samaritans:
Helpline: 116 123 (24/7, free to call)

It was not your fault. You don't have to grieve alone.

Crisis and harm

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